Panamanian Scientist Dr.Marta Illueca to Receive American Pediatrics Association Recognition
PANAMA CITY, Panama – Dr. Marta Illueca,a Panamanian scientist and medical professional,and professor at the University of Panama,will be recognized by the American Pediatrics association for her distinguished career dedicated to pediatric health,vaccine advocacy,and rigorous scientific research. The announcement underscores Dr. Illueca’s commitment to dispelling misinformation and supporting comprehensive patient care.
Dr. Illueca has built a career defending vaccines and the wellbeing of pediatric populations through evidence-based research. Beyond her scientific contributions, she uniquely integrates faith and science in her approach to patient care and research.
Recently, Dr. Illueca disseminated collaborative research entitled the Church and Academy model: a new paradigm for spirituality research and Mental health. The study details the “Church and Academy Model,” a novel approach to knowledge exchange that incorporates theologians as full participants alongside academics and clinical psychologists in all phases of research – from grant applications to data interpretation and dissemination.
This model facilitated the successful validation of a new psychometric instrument, alongside the creation of a “Prayer tool next to the bed” designed for pastoral care and patient self-management. The collaborative framework allows researchers direct access to religious communities for programme design and evaluation, while providing the Church with access to specialized research expertise.
“Supporting the patient from a double medical and spiritual vision means to encourage their care in an integral way, without losing scientific rigor or the necessary humanity that is that lever that moves the world,” Dr. Illueca stated.
The American Pediatrics Association’s recognition highlights the growing importance of holistic approaches to healthcare and the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing medical knowledge.
