NASCAR names MIS doc ‘Medical Director of the Year’

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He is the person most race fans and guests likely don’t want to see when they visit Michigan International Speedway. But if they do, they are in good hands.

NASCAR has named Dr. John Maino, Michigan International Speedway’s medical director, as medical director of the year during its annual meeting with racetracks.

NASCAR annually recognizes a medical director who excels in leadership and organizational skills in the daily operations of a racetrack’s infield care center. Maino always assures medical standards are met, and that issues are quickly addressed with an immediate and positive outcome.

“MIS is successful because we are a family; a team that works well together to provide a lasting, memorable experience at every racing event,” Maino said. “The key to our success is teamwork, mutual respect and cooperation among the interacting disciplines when working together. I received the Medical Director Award from NASCAR for everyone I work with at MIS. The staffs of the fire, security and medical services should be receiving this award because without them we wouldn’t be the success we are. We are the ‘supporting staff’ that ensures that the events will be as safe as possible.”

Maino has not missed a race at Michigan International Speedway since he began working there in 1984. He oversees the infield care center’s medical efforts.

On any given weekend, the infield care center could treat 500 to 1,000 patients or more with everything from injuries they sustain at the track to existing issues that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.

The care center treats anyone at MIS on a race weekend – drivers, crew members, track staff and guests. It opens on Thursday of race week through Monday. He’s treated drivers injured on the racetrack, dehydrated race fans, broken bones, sunburns, pink eye. You name it and he’s probably treated it.

“The staff must anticipate dangers and problems while being flexible and adapting to the situation. When spectators and fans come to MIS they want to be secure knowing that they will be safe and cared for should something occur,” Maino added.

A lifelong resident of Jackson, Mich., Maino is a 1971 graduate of Lumen Christ High School. He is a graduate of Michigan State University and Wayne State University School of Medicine. He currently serves as the medical director of Jackson County EMS System and the Chief Medical Examiner of Jackson County.

“Dr. Maino has a reputation for being not only a fine physician, but an even better human being. He has been an asset to us for many years and it’s an honor to have him on our team,” MIS President Roger Curtis said.

MIS PR

Speedway Digest Staff
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