Mensa Foundation honors medical
instrument improvement

The Mensa Education & Research Foundation announced that Dr. Gary Flom of Stockbridge, Ga., is the 2009 recipient of the Copper Black Award for Creative Achievement, given for exceptional creativity and problem solving. Flom received the award for his development of Universal Forceps.

“Dr. Flom’s development can be considered a medical breakthrough because of how much it improves surgical procedures,” said Dr. Harry Ringermacher, the Copper Black Award Chair. “The development of Universal Forceps will allow surgeons to concentrate on their tasks without having to switch between numerous instruments. Dr. Flom deserves this award for his dedication and innovative approach to surgical equipment and patient safety.”

Flom is an otolaryngologist in Atlanta. He received his medical degree from the Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science at Chicago Medical School and did his residency in otolaryngology and general surgery at St. Louis University Hospital.

The Copper Black Award was named after the late Ms. Copper Black, a Mensa member who greatly valued creativity. In her will, she left a legacy by funding a special annual award to recognize an outstanding creative achievement by a member of American Mensa. Flom is the eighth Mensa member to receive this award.