Orly Avitzur, MD, MBA

“I have had the privilege of working with Dr. Orly Avitzur in her role as President Elect (2019-2021) and President (2021-2023) of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), the worlds largest professional association for neurologists. Dr. Avitzur led with a firm commitment to promote the highest quality of neurological care. She is a compassionate physician, extraordinary journalist and writer and devoted leader. As President, Dr. Avitzur exhibited strong strategic vision, ensuring the AAN remains at the forefront of neurologic research, education, advocacy and brain health. During her leadership the AAN grew to more than 40,000 members worldwide. She propelled the organization toward new strategic collaborations that have paved the way for advancements in brain health, international outreach, and a stronger neurology workforce. Dr. Avitzur’s contributions to the professional medical community are vast. As a practicing physician, she has remarkable skill and compassionate care for her patients. She connects personally, listens attentively, and provides comprehensive medical care. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure her patients receive the highest standard of care, prioritizing their well-being and advocating for their needs. Dr. Avitzur has made significant contributions to medical journalism and public education. Her role as the Editor in Chief of Brain & Life ® magazine and as an editor for Neurology Today® showcases her exceptional ability to synthesize complex medical information and effectively communicate it to diverse audiences. Under her leadership, B&L has experienced significant growth and recognition. Her editorial vision, leadership and passion for neurology and her keen editorial acumen have elevated the quality and impact of the publication. With her guidance, the magazine has successfully adapted to the evolving digital landscape, reaching a broader audience, and increasing its impact. Her dedication to fostering collaboration among experts in the field has resulted in a broad range of perspectives being represented in the publications, further enriching the content, and encouraging interdisciplinary dialogue. Dr. Avitzur is also an exceptional leader and collaborator. She is highly respected by her peers and colleagues for her expertise, integrity, and commitment to advancing the field of medicine. Her professionalism, strong work ethic, and genuine empathy for her patients and colleagues make her an exceptional leader and writer. Her contributions to the field of neurology have not only earned her recognition as a trusted authority and leader, but have also inspired and influenced countless readers seeking reliable information in the ever-evolving world of healthcare. I have no doubt that Dr. Orly Avitzur will excel in any endeavor she undertakes. I wholeheartedly recommend her for any opportunity that aligns with these amazing skills and passions. Sincerely, Mary Post, CEO, MBA”

“I met Dr. Orly Avitzur in 2008 when I was President and CEO of Consumer Reports and hired her to be a key leader in Consumer Reports’ health information and advocacy programs. She served as Medical Adviser and Health Editor, and later as Medical Director, until 2018. A staunch advocate for consumer rights and patient safety, she helped align health care strategy at Consumer Reports and implemented key programs. Orly helped establish the Consumer Reports Health Ratings Center and its unique program to measure the comparative effectiveness of drugs and treatments and widely publicize the findings. She promoted patient safety and preventive services, led initiatives to improve the cost and quality of care, and advocated for fairness and transparency in the marketplace. A powerful communicator, Orly was a valued spokesperson on medical and health issues. She appeared in myriad television, radio, print and web interviews – ranging from CNN to NPR to the Washington Post – and on social media platforms. She was skilled at preparing others on the health staff for press interviews and getting widespread coverage generally for Consumer Reports on health. Orly is an accomplished writer. In her columns advising consumers on everything from how to avoid phony health care products to advice about different medical problems, she was adept at presenting complex issues in language that average consumers could understand. In her career she has written hundreds of published stories for a variety of publications. In addition to her MD, Orly has an MBA. Not only was it useful in advocating for the Affordable Care Act, it enabled her to leverage her health insurance industry knowledge to advise Consumer Reports readers on complex coverage issues and assist them in resolving denials of payments and services. In addition to her medical practice as a neurologist, which she has maintained part time throughout her career, Orly is editor-in-chief of Brain & Life, a patient and caregiver magazine. She also has served as President of the American Academy of Neurology. Bottom line, Orly Avitzur has a unique combination of expertise in communications, business and medical economics, medicine, and advocacy. She is a skillful strategic thinker and was widely praised by colleagues at Consumer Reports for her negotiation and mediation abilities. She is an innovative problem-solver. Her business background often brings a fresh perspective to vexing issues and successful resolution to conflict. She has steered several rebranding campaigns, led multiple physician advisory teams, and directed collaborations with communications, marketing, web, and social media groups. Finally, Orly is a sheer pleasure to work with. She is smart, thoughtful, a team player who collaborates well with others, works hard, has a sense of humor, is trustworthy, delivers results.”