Story #101: James Nelson, Mental Health Committee Alum and Medical Innovator

James Nelson ‘61’s distinguished career in healthcare spans over four decades, with a profound impact on both patient care and medical innovation. After completing undergrad at Harvard College and then medical training at Harvard Medical School, he spent four years in general practice and surgery before becoming board-certified in diagnostic radiology. His academic career took him to the University of California, San Francisco, the University of Utah, and the University of Washington, where he served as faculty and established research labs at each institution, securing multiple NIH grants along the way.

Throughout his career, Nelson’s contributions to medical technology were groundbreaking, including co-inventing the pigtail chest tube and developing a CT-guided stereotactic frame that revolutionized neurosurgery! His work as a Chief Medical Officer in several successful medical startups and his involvement in the acquisition of one by Medtronic further exemplifies his leadership and innovation in the healthcare industry.

Nelson’s connection to PBHA began during his time at Harvard, where he volunteered for four years with the Mental Health Committee. As he shared in PBHA’s 2023 Alumni Survey:

“I volunteered with the Mental Health Committee for four years, visiting Metropolitan Hospital in Belmont every Thursday afternoon. (Had to hustle back to make football practice!). This experience prepared me to be attuned to my patient's mental as well as physical needs. It was of great importance in many clinical encounters.” - James Nelson

This experience was formative for Nelson, providing him with an early understanding of the importance of addressing both the mental and physical needs of patients—a perspective that would serve him well throughout his medical career. In addition to his academic and professional pursuits, Nelson’s time with PBHA instilled in him a deep appreciation for community service, teaching him the values of empathy, leadership, and the importance of giving back. These values guided him throughout his medical career, influencing both his clinical practice and his personal life, including his role as a compassionate family manager during his late wife’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease. PBHA is grateful to hear of Nelson’s phenomenal accomplishments and continued values.