About Dan Handel

​Dan Handel, MD, is a physician executive and Chief Medical Officer.  Dr. Handel’s extensive medical career includes leading major healthcare systems in North Carolina, Indiana, and South Carolina.  In addition to publishing a definitive textbook on healthcare leadership and over 50 peer-reviewed academic works, Dr. Handel brings his analytical rigor and scientific background to the world of science fiction. His accepted debut historical novel, Into the Lion’s Den, reflects his fascination with complex social structures and the personal costs of historical upheaval. His current manuscript, The Project: Book One of the Telomere Trilogy, was a finalist for the 2026 Maxy Awards in the Science Fiction genre (2026 — Maxy Awards).  He lives in North Carolina with his family.