February 16, 2007

George P. Baker, MD, retires
from practice

Following an illustrious 50-year career at the MGH, George P. Baker, MD, of the Bulfinch Medical Group, has stepped down from his clinical service at the hospital. He will maintain a role as chairman of the Provider Order Entry Committee and continue to represent the group on the Medical Policy Committee.

"A master of re-engineering," "a pioneer," "ahead of the curve" and "a mentor and friend," are only a few of the words colleagues used to describe Baker at his retirement party Jan. 17 at the Harvard Club. Approximately 130 guests - including Baker's family and members of MGH leadership - attended the special tribute to
the well-respected physician and administrator.

Baker's career began at the MGH in 1957 following his graduation from Harvard Medical School. After completing his residency and fellowship training at the
MGH in 1962, he joined the clinical staff, helping to build a vibrant practice and establishing a reputation as a diligent, thoughtful and caring professional. With a special clinical interest in renal disease, Baker helped to establish the MGH's first Hemodialysis Unit, of which he was named director in 1964. He became senior medical physician at the start of the MGH Renal Transplant Program in 1966. In 1983, he was named associate general director for Medical Affairs, a role in which he oversaw the MGH's rapidly growing ambulatory care programs until 1996. Right, Baker and his wife, Bunny

"The MGH has come a long way over the years, and George has played a key role - he's a true leader," said Nina Tolkoff-Rubin, MD, medical director for the Renal Transplant Program and a speaker at the party. "George was my colleague and mentor. He not only tirelessly cared for the renal transplant patients, but also was devoted to helping set the standards of care."