Ron Falk, MD, Chair of the University of North Carolina Department of Medicine, announced the appointment of Jennifer E. Flythe, MD, MPH, as the new Chief of the UNC Division of Nephrology and Hypertension effective September 15, 2024. Flythe, a renowned expert in patient-centered kidney care, will lead the division with a vision grounded in collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
“Dr. Flythe is an internationally renowned nephrologist and esteemed investigator whom we are fortunate to have in our midst,” Falk said. “Her exceptional expertise and creative vision position her as a promising leader who will undoubtedly inspire and guide the division into the future.”
In addition to her role as Division Chief, Flythe will serve as the Associate Director for the UNC Kidney Center. She has been a key figure in the division, having served as vice chief since 2020 and as Medical Director of UNC Hospital’s dialysis services beginning in 2017. Her profound respect for the Division of Nephrology and Hypertension is evident.
“Hands down… the people,” she said when asked what impresses her most about the division.
“The Division is full of world-class clinicians, researchers, and educators who are united in their commitment to advance kidney health in North Carolina and beyond through innovative, patient-centered care and research. I am so proud to be a part of this exceptional group.”
Flythe brings a robust background in kidney patient care and research, particularly in hemodialysis. Her research aims to improve the safety and experiences of individuals living with kidney diseases by bettering clinical and patient-reported outcomes, with an emphasis on developing innovative, stakeholder-acceptable strategies that can be readily implemented in real-world care.
Her work delves into hemodialysis procedural risk factors, including hemodynamics and fluid management, considers the comparative safety and effectiveness of medications in the dialysis setting, and examines person-centered strategies for delivering care and education. Central to her research is incorporating patient-reported outcomes, ensuring that patient priorities drive outcomes research.
Flythe’s distinguished career is marked by significant achievements, including being elected as a member of the American Society of Clinical Investigation in 2021. In 2022, she received the Shaul G. Massry Distinguished Lecture Award from the National Kidney Foundation. Flythe was honored with the James W. Woods Junior Faculty Award by the UNC School of Medicine in 2018. This year Flythe delivered the Wahlstrom Lectureship at the University of Colorado Department of Medicine Grand Rounds.
Flythe’s leadership philosophy is deeply informed by her research and experience in patient-centered care.
“My research has shown me that the needs and priorities of our patients must be our compass,” she said. “Putting the patient at the center of all decisions is paramount. Second, my interactions with collaborators, stakeholders, and participants have taught me the importance of leading with empathy and compassion and involving diverse voices in decision-making.”
“Differences should not divide us. They should challenge us to find new solutions. They make us better.”
Flythe steps into her new role following the successful tenure of Gerald Hladik, MD, Doc J Thurston Distinguished Professor of Medicine, who has served as Chief of the UNC Division of Nephrology and Hypertension with dedication and distinction. Hladik’s leadership has been instrumental in advancing the division’s mission and maintaining its high standards of excellence.
Flythe is committed to building upon the strong foundation laid by Hladik and continuing the division’s trajectory of success.
“I hope to foster a collaborative and purpose-driven culture where individuals can achieve their own aspirations, amplifying our collective ability to meet our quadripartite mission—exceptional patient care, research, education, and community service,” Flythe said.
Hladik will transition to the role of Vice Chair for Faculty Development for the UNC Department of Medicine, a position currently held by Lee Berkowitz, MD, Eunice Bernhard Distinguished Professor of Medicine. Berkowitz’s decades of contributions and dedication to the institution will be celebrated later this year.