Since 1985 the Medal has been awarded to persons with great merit in the field of respiratory diseases in the broad sense in the Netherlands. This may be related to diagnostics, treatment or science of lung diseases, or special social merits for the field. The award was presented by Prof. Grutters, the president of the Prof. Dr. Jaap Swierenga Stichting.
Prof. Groen was selected as the winner of this year's medal, as he played an important role in the initiation of 'NVALT studies', has an impressive and stable scientific output over several decades and successfully completed difficult files (including reimbursements from 'de basiszorg' for new treatments for lung cancer). In addition, he has played an important role for many years as a national advisor to KWF, insurers, and policy makers. Therefore, he has made a very distinctive social contribution to the development of lung oncology care nationwide.
Congratulations Prof. Groen!
