Nat Sims, MD

Cardiac Anesthesiologist, Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital
Associate Professor of Anesthesia, Harvard Medical School
Ronald S. Newbower, PhD and Eitan Family MGH Endowed Chair in Biomedical Technology Innovation

Nat Sims, MD, is a cardiac anesthesiologist who has devoted his career to developing advanced tools and systems that improve patient safety and care while also reducing cost. As an accomplished pilot, Sims found inspiration for improving medicine in the technologies of aviation safety. Working with interdisciplinary teams of biomedical engineers, nurses, and experts from multiple clinical specialties, he and his colleagues pioneered improvements in patient monitoring, patient transport and error-free intravenous drug delivery systems. His most significant invention includes the original concepts for “smart drug infusion pumps”, which were developed in 1992 at Massachusetts General Hospital in collaboration with engineers at a local subsidiary of Baxter Healthcare and implemented clinically in 1997. Sims has garnered recognition from various professional organizations, including the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation, for his work to improve medical devices and equipment. Sims is the winner of the 2017 Nathaniel Bowditch Prize. Awarded by the MGH Board of Trustees, the prize recognizes individuals or teams that have made significant contributions in improving patient care while reducing cost. Currently Sims holds the Ronald S. Newbower, PhD and Eitan Family MGH Endowed Chair in Biomedical Technology Innovation. Sims earned his bachelor’s degree from Harvard College and his medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. He completed his residency and fellowship training at Massachusetts General Hospital.