Michael Fingerhood

Dr. Michael Fingerhood serves as Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, where he holds dual leadership roles as Director of the Medical ICU and Medical Director of Respiratory Therapy at University Hospital at Downstate.

Education:

• Undergraduate: Wesleyan University
• Medical School: Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons
• Internship/Residency: NYU Langone Medical Center (Internal Medicine)
• Fellowships: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (Pulmonary Disease) and Montefiore Medical Center (Critical Care Medicine)

Research Focus: Dr. Fingerhood's work centers on critical illness complications, with sepsis as a primary anchor connecting alcohol withdrawal protocols, pulmonary venous thromboembolism mechanisms, and pulse oximetry accuracy limitations in critically ill patients. His research integrates clinical ethics and palliative care frameworks within ICU settings while driving quality improvement initiatives for respiratory therapy standardization. This multidisciplinary approach bridges bedside practice with systemic healthcare optimization.

Scientific Recognition:

• DDRF Fellow at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
• Best Presentation Award, NYS Thoracic Society
• Best Presentation Award, ACCP CHEST Conferences

Professional Leadership: Previously instrumental in Bronx-based Covid-19 response and GME programs at Saint Barnabas Health System, Dr. Fingerhood now spearheads ICU operations at Downstate with emphasis on sepsis management protocols and respiratory therapy innovation. His clinical practice actively incorporates quality improvement frameworks developed during prior tenure at NYC-HHC Elmhurst Hospital.