Diego Hijano, MD, MSc

My interest in infection prevention and safety encompasses both patients and St. Jude employees. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I assumed a leadership position within occupational health. Together, our team provided guidance for employees, implemented contact tracing, rolled out a vaccination program and helped keep campus safe. Since that time, I have dedicated my efforts to advancing employee safety, well-being and mental health, with a particular emphasis on developing and improving programs and systems that support workforce well-being and organizational effectiveness. My commitment to workforce well-being reflects a broader belief that exceptional patient care depends on creating environments where people feel supported, valued and empowered to do meaningful, mission-driven work.

I helped develop the Transplant Infectious Diseases Program at St. Jude. The clinic, which now operates five days a week, provides comprehensive care for transplant and cellular therapy patients. Infectious diseases specialists evaluate patients before transplant and follow them for up to two years afterward, ensuring continuity of care while providing education and clinical guidance throughout the transplant journey. I also developed the transplant infectious diseases curriculum used to educate fellows, residents and medical students. Recognizing the unique risks faced by these patients and fostering vigilance across multidisciplinary care teams is essential to delivering optimal outcomes.

I am also actively involved in national and international educational initiatives. Through the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society, I serve on the Education Subcommittee of the Infections in Transplant Patients Committee and help lead educational programs focused on transplant and immunocompromised hosts, including the Learning Through Literature initiative. Through the Pan American Society for Clinical Virology, I serve as Chair of the Clinical Practice Committee and as a member of the Society’s Council, while also contributing to educational and digital outreach efforts. These activities reflect my commitment to advancing education, mentorship and knowledge dissemination across the infectious diseases community. 

I draw upon my professional experience and expertise to support initiatives that improve the health of children, strengthen trust in science and advance evidence-based healthcare. Through public engagement, education and advocacy, I address vaccine misinformation, promote immunization, improve patient care and champion efforts that support healthcare professionals. I believe trust is the foundation of effective healthcare and public health. By combining scientific evidence, clear communication and compassionate leadership, I strive to strengthen the systems that serve patients, families and healthcare workers.

Dr. Hijano received his MD from the National University of La Plata in La Plata, Argentina. He completed a residency in general pediatrics at Children’s Hospital Sor María Ludovica in La Plata, followed by a fellowship in epidemiology and public health at the Institute for the Development and Pediatric Research. He subsequently completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Vaccine Center at Vanderbilt University and a clinical fellowship in pediatric infectious diseases at St. Jude. In 2018, Dr. Hijano earned a Master of Science degree in Clinical Effectiveness from the University of Buenos Aires and is currently pursuing a dual Master of Health Administration and Master of Business Administration degree.

Dr. Hijano currently serves as an Associate Member in the Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical Director of Occupational Health, and Division Director of Transplant Infectious Diseases. His work spans clinical research, healthcare leadership and advocacy, with a focus on advancing trust, safety and well-being through research, innovation and systems leadership.

Affiliations