INDUSTRY INSIGHTS:\u00a0Want more news like this? Get our free newsletter here<\/a><\/p>\n Joshua Abrams, DO, Desert Institute For Spine Care: Orthopedic spine surgeon specializing in minimally invasive surgery, artificial disc replacement, and cervical and lumbar spine care.<\/p>\n Nazila Adib, MD, Denova Collaborative Health: Board\u2011certified psychiatrist with expertise in addiction, mental health therapy, psychopharmacology, LGBTQ+ care and integrated behavioral health.<\/p>\n Ashley Albert, MD, Arizona Center for Cancer Care: Radiation oncology, with expertise in IMRT and IGRT.<\/p>\n Gretchen Alexander, MD, District Medical Group: Board-certified in adult psychiatry and addiction psychiatry, serving as medical director of psychiatric consultation at District Medical Group.<\/p>\n Kristopher Alpers, DDS<\/p>\n Owner \/\/ Alpers Family and Cosmetic Dentistry<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Alpers is the owner of Alpers Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Scottsdale, where he delivers general, cosmetic and implant dentistry with an unwavering focus on patient experience. Recognized as one of Arizona\u2019s Best Doctors for two consecutive years, Dr. Alpers is known for blending cutting-edge technology with a personalized, patient-centered approach. Beyond the clinic, he mentors fellow dentists nationwide and gives back through ongoing service at The Neighborhood Christian Clinic. His vision is reshaping modern dentistry: one that prioritizes trust, early detection and whole-body health, all while helping patients feel seen, heard and truly cared for.<\/p>\n Pivotal moment: \u201cA pivotal moment for me came in high school, when former NBA player Chris Carr mentored me and believed in me at a time I needed it most. His generosity helped me earn a college basketball scholarship, but the deeper lesson was about investing in others. That experience shaped everything \u2014 how I lead my team, how I care for patients and why I coach other dentists. I\u2019ve seen firsthand how one mentor can change the trajectory of someone\u2019s life. Now, it\u2019s my mission to do the same \u2014 for patients, for my team and for future healthcare leaders.\u201d<\/p>\n Source of pride: \u201cWhile I\u2019m proud of being named one of Arizona\u2019s Best Doctors, what brings me the greatest pride is the ripple effect of mentorship. Coaching other dentists, whether through The Pathway\u2019s implant program or the Bulletproof Dental community, allows me to multiply impact. When one dentist improves their skills or systems, hundreds of patients benefit. Helping my team grow professionally has also created a culture where people love coming to work and patients feel the difference. That kind of shared success is powerful. It\u2019s not just about building a practice; it\u2019s about elevating care for entire communities.\u201d<\/p>\n Trends to watch in healthcare: \u201cI believe the future of healthcare must move toward personalization and prevention. Patients want providers who look at the whole picture, not just isolated symptoms. In our practice, we\u2019re already leaning into this shift, using tools like 3D imaging to detect issues early and smile simulations to personalize care by allowing patients to preview and adjust results in real time.\u201d<\/p>\n Learn more: alpersdentistry.com<\/a><\/p>\n Amanda K. Arrington, MD, Canyon Vista Medical Center: General surgery and surgical oncology, with particular expertise in hepatopancreatobiliary (liver\/pancreas), colorectal and cancer-related procedures.<\/p>\n Wazhma Aslamy, MD, HonorHealth: Cardiologist specializing in cardiovascular disease, with expertise in general cardiology, echocardiography, valvular heart disease, congestive heart failure and preventive cardiology.<\/p>\n Samina Ayub, MD, Dignity Health Medical Group-Ahwatukee: Family medicine with a focus on family and sports medicine in Ahwatukee.<\/p>\n Anthony\u00a0A.\u00a0Admire,\u00a0MD<\/p>\n Owner, AdmireMD Plastic Surgery + Skin Clinic<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Admire is an internationally recognized, board-certified plastic surgeon and facelift expert based in Scottsdale. Dedicated to patient education, he is an active leader and speaker with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, The Aesthetic Society and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. In 2020, AdmireMD Plastic Surgery + Skin Clinic expanded into a state-of-the-art facility offering the most advanced aesthetic, laser and skincare treatments in a luxurious, spa-like setting. The following year, Dr. Admire founded a state-of-the-art ambulatory surgery center in Paradise Valley, where he now performs all outpatient procedures. Specializing in facial, breast and body aesthetic surgery, Dr. Admire is nationally sought after for his expertise in deep-plane face and neck lifts, delivering natural, balanced results. He has been recognized by Castle Connolly for more than 10 years, a distinction awarded to fewer than 10% of U.S. physicians. An Arizona native and former chief of plastic surgery at HonorHealth, Dr. Admire also serves as faculty for the University of Arizona College of Medicine \u2013 Phoenix, reflecting his ongoing commitment to education, excellence and the community he serves.<\/p>\n Learn more: admireplasticsurgery.com<\/a><\/p>\n Faisal A. Bahadur, MD, Chandler Regional Medical Center: Interventional cardiology, general cardiology, vascular and nuclear cardiology.<\/p>\n Marwan M. Bahu, MD, Abrazo Arrowhead Campus: Cardiac electrophysiology\/ electrophysiology (heart rhythm disorders).<\/p>\n Kathryn L. Bates, DO, Carondelet St. Joseph\u2019s Hospital: Cardiologist (internal dedicine, echocardiography, nuclear cardiology).<\/p>\n Rajesh Bhakta, MD, Optum \u2013 Arizona: Internal medicine.<\/p>\n Robert Cercek, MD, The CORE Institute: Orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee care, joint replacement (primary and revision), fractures and trauma.<\/p>\n Michael Choti, MD, Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center: Surgical oncology, especially gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery.<\/p>\n Tania Cortas, MD<\/p>\n City of Hope Phoenix<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Cortas is a trusted medical oncologist and hematologist at City of Hope, specializing in breast cancer care and the treatment of a wide range of malignancies and blood disorders. Fluent in English and Arabic, she brings a global perspective to personalized medicine. Triple board certified and trained at Case Western Reserve University, Dr. Cortas is an active member of leading professional organizations, including the American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Society of Hematology and American Association for Physician Leadership. She is passionate about precision medicine and tailoring treatment to each patient\u2019s unique needs, offering expert, compassionate care through every stage of their cancer journey.<\/p>\n Learn more: cityofhope.org<\/a><\/p>\n Judd E. Cummings, MD, HonorHealth Orthopedics: Hip, knee, shoulder orthopedic surgery and orthopedic oncology<\/p>\n John Davitt, MD<\/p>\n Surgeon, Arizona Gynecology Consultants: Dr. Davitt completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Georgetown University Hospital and Washington Hospital Center. Following residency, he pursued a fellowship in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery at the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Phoenix. A board-certified gynecologist, Dr. Davitt specializes in complex pelvic surgery including excisional treatment of endometriosis, treatment of adenomyosis, fibroids and pelvic pain. He has published articles and videos on various minimally invasive surgical techniques, female pelvic pathology, anatomy, and medical student education.<\/p>\n Trends to watch: \u201cWe will need to evaluate the tremendous impact on our country\u2019s health from decreases in funding for public healthcare. We will also need to determine how best artificial intelligence can be integrated into our system to improve patient outcomes and provider capabilities.\u201d<\/p>\n Source of pride: \u201cBeing able to take the time to listen to my patients, validate their experiences and offer options that fit their needs best.\u201d<\/p>\n Learn more: azgyn.com<\/a><\/p>\n Cameron Dick, MD, Banner Lung and Sleep Institute: Pulmonology, critical care medicine and sleep medicine.<\/p>\n Kenith Fang, MD, Phoenix Cardiac Surgery: Cardiothoracic surgery, including transcatheter valve therapies (TAVR).<\/p>\n Kevin Foster, MD<\/p>\n Diane & Bruce Halle Arizona Burn Center at Valleywise Health<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Foster has dedicated his career to providing first-class care to those in need. The Cave Creek resident is one of the preeminent burn specialists in the nation. From innovative treatments to pioneering medical research, he has proven to be an invaluable asset to the medical community. He also has become the face of the Diane & Bruce Halle Arizona Burn Center, one of the busiest burn centers in the country. Dr. Foster, who joined the burn center in 1999, is board certified by The American Board of Surgery and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He also has a master\u2019s degree in business administration.<\/p>\n Source of pride: \u201cI am most proud of developing an outstanding team of clinicians, researchers and educators who are dedicated to patient care.\u201d<\/p>\n Learn more: valleywisehealth.org\/burn<\/a><\/p>\n Tyler Francis, DMD, Francis Dental AZ: General and cosmetic dentistry (oral health, implants, veneers, preventive care).<\/p>\n Brandon E. Gough, MD, Gough Surgical: General surgery.<\/p>\n Erica Grabinski, DO, Optum Arizona: Primary care\u00a0provider, practicing in internal medicine.<\/p>\n Jerome J. Grove, MD, Pain Consultants Of Arizona: Pain medicine and anesthesiology with emphasis on acute and chronic pain treatments.<\/p>\n Shabnam Gupta, MD<\/p>\n Surgeon, Arizona Gynecology Consultants<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Gupta completed advanced minimally invasive surgical training at Harvard. She specializes in treating complex benign gynecologic conditions \u2014 including fibroids, endometriosis and abnormal bleeding \u2014 and offers laparoscopic abdominal cerclage for women with cervical insufficiency and recurrent pregnancy loss. Born in London and raised in Atlanta, Dr. Gupta developed a special interest in surgical innovation and medical devices early on. She earned a bachelor\u2019s degree in Biomedical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and completed medical school and OB\/GYN residency at the Emory University School of Medicine. Dr. Gupta currently holds academic appointments as Assistant Professor at Creighton University and Clinical Instructor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine.<\/p>\n Pivotal moment:\u201cMy grandfather, a physician who trained in post-partition India and worked in the U.K.\u2019s National Health Service, dedicated his life to caring for others. Growing up, I developed a deep appreciation for his vast knowledge, unwavering kindness and meaningful relationships with his patients. Witnessing how his career enriched his life and gave him purpose was a huge catalyst for my own desire to pursue medicine. Additionally, my father\u2019s encouragement and support have been instrumental in my own development. He taught me about the many roles leaders can play, and his guidance has shaped me into the person I am today.\u201d<\/p>\n Learn more: azgyn.com<\/a><\/p>\n Lourdes M. Guerrero-Tiro, MD, District Medical Group: Pediatric cardiology.<\/p>\n Helen Hall, MD, Banner Health Center Plus: Colon and rectal surgery<\/p>\n Matthew L. Hansen, MD, OrthoArizona: Orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal specialist.<\/p>\n Kristi L. Harold, MD, Mayo Clinic: Bariatric surgery, hernia repair and laparoscopic surgery.<\/p>\n Jason S. Hauptman, MD, PhD, Phoenix Children\u2019s: Nationally and internationally recognized expert\u00a0in the use of robotic stereo-electroencephalography (sEEG), awake surgery in children.<\/p>\n James J. Hines, MD, Arizona Cardiology Group: Cardiology \u2014 specializing in heart disease, interventional or general cardiology.<\/p>\n Emily Ho, MD<\/p>\n Ironwood Cancer & Research Women\u2019s Centers<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Ho began her journey to medicine through engineering. She obtained her bachelor\u2019s degree at the California Institute of Technology and a master\u2019s degree in engineering at UCLA. After a successful career as a software engineer, she returned to school to complete her medical degree at Wayne State University and Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowship at the John Wayne Cancer Institute.<\/p>\n Pivotal moment: \u201cA defining moment in my healthcare journey came when a grateful patient thanked me not only for their care, but for helping them truly understand their condition. That experience revealed the healing power of clear, compassionate communication. I recognized that explaining complex medical concepts in a relatable way was a valuable skill \u2014 and one I could pass on. I began mentoring others, emphasizing empathy and clarity in patient interactions. Seeing those I\u2019ve guided grow into confident, caring providers has been deeply rewarding.\u201d<\/p>\n Learn more: ironwoodcrc.com<\/a><\/p>\n Vincent J. Honan, MD, Arizona Digestive Health: Gastroenterology, specializing in digestive disease, internal medicine.<\/p>\n Todd Hobgood, MD, Hobgood Facial Plastic Surgery: Facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, esthetic facial procedures.<\/p>\n Saurabh Jauhari, MD, Healing Horizons Psychiatry: Adult psychiatry an mental health.<\/p>\n Sunny Jhamnani, MD, Tri-City Cardiology: Cardiology and cardiovascular medicine.<\/p>\n Seth M. Kaufman, MD, Scottsdale Neurology: Neurology (including vascular neurology and neuromuscular medicine).<\/p>\n Kiranjit Khalsa, MD, Premier Allergy Asthma & Immunology: Allergy, asthma and immunology.<\/p>\n Max C. Kim, MD, Arizona Glaucoma Specialists: Ophthalmology with subspecialty in glaucoma.<\/p>\n Sujith Kalmadi, MD<\/p>\n Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers: Dr. Kalmadi completed medical school in India, followed by residency and fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic, where he later served on the academic faculty. He has led innovative clinical trials that have received national recognition and been published in peer-reviewed journals, contributing to the development and FDA approval of groundbreaking cancer therapies.\u00a0<\/p>\n Pivotal moment: \u201cMy path shifted the day I recognized that my greatest impact would not come solely from the exam room, but from reshaping the systems that surround patients. Early in my career, I saw how fragmented care could delay treatment or leave families overwhelmed. That realization pushed me to step into leadership \u2014 first reluctantly, but then with purpose \u2014 so I could help design solutions rather than simply work around problems. Choosing to focus on system-level transformation, while staying grounded in patient care, was the turning point that defined my journey as a physician leader.\u201d<\/p>\n Learn more: ironwoodcrc.com\/<\/p>\n Gary Knighton, MD, Arizona Medical Weight Loss: Obesity medicine and medical weight loss.<\/p>\n Lavanya Kodali, MD, Mayo Clinic: Transplant nephrology and kidney and pancreas transplant specialist.<\/p>\n Todd M. Kravetz, MD, Wickenburg Community Hospital Clinic: Family medicine physician.<\/p>\n Kelly Krohn, MD, The CORE Institute: Orthopedic surgeon (musculoskeletal and orthopedic procedures).<\/p>\n Karan Lal, DO, Affiliated Dermatology North Scottsdale: Dermatology (skin, hair, cosmetic, medical dermatology).<\/p>\n Kristin K. Lau, MD, Desert Ridge Family Physicians: Family medicine and primary care.<\/p>\n Michael T. Lawton, MD<\/p>\n Barrow Neurological Institute: Dr. Lawton\u2019s neurosurgical expertise includes cerebrovascular disorders (aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, cavernous malformations and stroke) and skull base tumors. He has experience in treating more than 5,350\u00a0brain aneurysms, 1,300\u00a0arteriovenous malformations\u00a0(AVMs), 1,400\u00a0cavernous malformations and more than 800 cerebrovascular bypasses performed. He is a member of the the American Academy of Neurological Surgery, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, the Society of Neurological Surgeons and the World Academy of Neurological Surgery.<\/p>\n Learn more: barrowneuro.org<\/a><\/p>\n Mark J. Leber, MD, Arizona Hand & Wrist: Orthopedic surgery with subspecialty in hand, wrist and upper extremity surgery.<\/p>\n Ben Leff, MD, Advanced Ear Nose & Throat:Otolaryngology and ENT (ears, nose, throat, head and neck).<\/p>\n Steven Lester, MD, Discovery Oasis: Cardiology and cardiovascular medicine, including imaging and advanced cardiac care.<\/p>\n Todd D. Levine, MD, Phoenix Neurological Associates: Neurology (nervous system, brain, spinal cord).<\/p>\n Shayna Mansfield, DO, Manzanita Medical: Osteopathic family medicine and primary care (general practice).<\/p>\n Carlos Mata, MD, Natural Results Plastic Surgery: Plastic surgery, aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.<\/p>\n Diane K. Matsumoto, MD, TLC Pediatrics: Pediatrics (general pediatric care).<\/p>\n Michael McBride, DO, Saguaro Dermatology: Cosmetic procedures and complex medical dermatology.<\/p>\n James Nachbar, MD<\/p>\n Scottsdale Plastic Surgery<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Nachbar is double-board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. His practice is limited to cosmetic plastic surgery, where he is renowned for his expertise in body and facial plastic surgery. He is strongly committed to a collaborative relationship with his patients, with an emphasis on patient education and autonomy, and the goal of producing a natural result. As an innovator, Dr. Nachbar is the inventor of the Mommy Makeover, and has used the No-Drain technique for all of his tummy tucks since 2008. He has also been elected president of the Arizona Medical Association, a position he will start in 2026.<\/p>\n Learn more: plastic.org<\/a><\/p>\n Michael McKernan, MD, The CORE Institute: Orthopedic surgery, specializing in hand and upper extremity surgery.<\/p>\n Michael E. Manning, MD, Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates: Allergy and immunologic disorders.<\/p>\n Frederick Marciano, MD, Barrow Brain and Spine: Neurosurgery, brain and spine surgery.<\/p>\n Thomas A. Mattioni, MD, Arizona Arrhythmia Consultants: Cardiac electrophysiology, arrhythmia, heart rhythm specialty.<\/p>\n Drew V. Moffitt, MD, Arizona Reproductive Medicine: Reproductive endocrinology, fertility, assisted reproductive medicine.<\/p>\n Ana Moran, MD, Arizona Pulmonary Specialists: Pulmonology, lung and respiratory medicine.<\/p>\n Tiffany Nelson, MD, Desert Ridge Family Physicians: Family medicine and primary care.<\/p>\n Macelle Neuwirth, MD, Children\u2019s Medical Group: Pediatrics or pediatric medicine.<\/p>\n Irina Nistor, MD, Southwest Diagnostic Imaging: Radiology and diagnostic imaging<\/p>\n Samir P. Patel, DO, Arizona Pain Care Center: Pain management and pain medicine<\/p>\n Paul M. Petelin Jr., MD, Scottsdale Center For Sight: Ophthalmology, specializing in refractive surgery, LASIK, cornea and vision correction.\u00a0<\/p>\n Francisco Ponce, MD<\/p>\n Barrow Neurological Institute<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Ponce serves as director of the Neurosurgery Residency Program at Barrow and is board certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery. Dr. Ponce\u2019s expertise includes deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery for Parkinson\u2019s disease, essential tremor and dystonia, as well as focused ultrasound for essential tremor and tremor-dominant Parkinson\u2019s. He is also active in the operative management of cranial and spinal trauma.<\/p>\n Learn more: barrowneuro.org<\/a><\/p>\n James L. Plotnik, MD, Arizona Pediatric Eye Specialists: Pediatric ophthalmology, eye specialist for children.<\/p>\n Alyx B. Porter, MD, Mayo Clinic Hospital: Professor of Neurology with a subspecialty certification in neuro-oncology.<\/p>\n Randall W. Porter, MD<\/p>\n Barrow Brain and Spine and Barrow Neurological Institute<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Porter is a neurosurgeon and the director of the Acoustic Neuroma Program at Barrow Neurological Institute. He is board certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery. Dr. Porter\u2019s expertise includes the diagnosis and treatment of acoustic neuromas and other skull base tumors, degenerative spinal disorders and spinal trauma. He serves as the team neurosurgeon for the Arizona Cardinals. Dr. Porter has published more than 100 peer-reviewed papers and more than 40 chapters in major medical textbooks. He has served as associate editor of the\u00a0Journal Skull Base Surgery\u00a0and has been invited to review numerous articles for the scientific literature.<\/p>\n Learn more: barrowneuro.org<\/a><\/p>\n Alessandra Puggioni, MD, Scottsdale Vascular Services: Vascular surgery, vein and venous disease specialist, including minimally invasive endovascular techniques and lymphedema care.<\/p>\n Priya Radhakrishnan, MD, HonorHealth: Primary care physician.<\/p>\n Venkatesh\u202fG. Ramaiah, MD, HonorHealth: Vascular surgery.<\/p>\n Eric M. Reuss, MD, Scottsdale Obstetrics: Obstetrics and gynecology.<\/p>\n Mitchell J. Ross, MD, Arizona Cardiology Group: Cardiology.\u00a0<\/p>\n William S. Robertson, MD, Scottsdale Cardiovascular Center: Cardiology and vascular medicine.<\/p>\n Mark J. Rubin, MD, Pain Consultants Of Arizona: Pain medicine and interventional pain management.<\/p>\n Jonathan D. Ruzi, MD, Arizona Pulmonary Specialists: Pulmonology and respiratory medicine.<\/p>\n Michael Saavedra, MD, Phoenix Allergy & Asthma: Allergy and immunology; asthma and allergist.\u00a0<\/p>\n Marwan Sabbagh, MD<\/p>\n Barrow Neurological Institute<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Sabbagh is a behavioral neurologist and the Moreno Family Chair for Alzheimer\u2019s Research in the\u00a0Alzheimer\u2019s and Memory Disorders Program\u00a0at Barrow Neurological Institute. He is also a professor and the Vice Chair of Research in the Institute\u2019s\u00a0Department of Neurology. He is board certified in neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Sabbagh\u2019s expertise includes the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer\u2019s disease and other memory disorders. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Neurology.<\/p>\n Learn more: barrowneuro.org<\/a><\/p>\n Nima Salari, MD, Desert Institute for Spine Care: Spine surgery and orthopedic spine or neurosurgery with spine focus.<\/p>\n Nader Sanai, MD<\/p>\n Ivy Brain Tumor Center<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Sanai is the Francis & Dionne Najafi Chair in\u00a0Neurosurgical Oncology\u00a0at Barrow Neurological Institute. An internationally acclaimed neurosurgeon and one of the nation\u2019s highest-volume\u00a0brain tumor\u00a0surgeons, Dr. Sanai has built a specialty clinical practice devoted to patients with benign and malignant brain tumors, particularly those in high-risk areas. He is an expert in intraoperative brain mapping techniques, which identify and preserve areas of motor, sensory, and language function during brain surgery. In 2016, Dr. Sanai was elected to the American Academy of Neurological Surgeons, the most respected academic organization in neurosurgery.<\/p>\n Learn more: barrowneuro.org<\/a><\/p>\n Craig Saran, DO, Arizona Pain Doctors: Pain medicine and osteopathic pain management.<\/p>\n Mark J. Seifert, MD, Honorhealth Medical Group: Clinical cardiac electrophysiology.<\/p>\n Lawrence W. Shaw, MD, Shaw Center: Cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.<\/p>\n Jeremy M. Shefner, MD, PhD<\/p>\n Barrow Neurological Institute<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Shefner is a neurologist in the\u00a0Gregory W. Fulton ALS & Neuromuscular Disease Center\u00a0and professor in the\u00a0Department of Neurology\u00a0at Barrow Neurological Institute. He is board certified in neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and he specializes in ALS and neuromuscular disorders. Dr. Shefner\u2019s research focuses on biomarker development and the clinical therapeutics of\u00a0amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)\u00a0and spinal muscular atrophy.\u00a0<\/p>\n Learn more: barrowneuro.org<\/a><\/p>\n John Shufeldt, MD, Xcellerant Ventures: Dr. Shufeldt made a $100 million donation to the ASU school of medicine and is fueling Phoenix\u2019s bio-tech boom with early-stage investments in high-tech startups via Xcellerant Ventures.<\/p>\n Suzanne Sorof, MD, Dignity Health: Interventional cardiology.<\/p>\n Susan C. Sorosky, MD, Desert Spine and Sports Physicians: Physical medicine and rehabilitation, specializing in musculoskeletal rehabilitation.<\/p>\n Karen S. Stark, MD, Scottsdale Heart Group: Cardiology.<\/p>\n Danielle Stearns, DO, Cardiovascular Institute of Scottsdale: Cardiology, including echocardiography and nuclear cardiology.<\/p>\n Anna Svatikova, MD, Mayo Clinic: Cardiology.<\/p>\n Irene K. Taw, MD, Arizona Oncology Associates: Radiation oncology.<\/p>\n Ann Thomas, MD, Arizona Kidney Disease: Nephrology.<\/p>\n Lori H. Travis, MD, Phoenix Neurological Associates: Neurology (with work in neuroimmunology\/multiple sclerosis).<\/p>\n Jay Turner, MD, PhD<\/p>\n Barrow Neurological Institute<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Turner\u00a0joined Barrow Neurological Institute at Dignity Health St. Joseph\u2019s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix as a neurosurgeon after completing his neurosurgery residency at Barrow. During his training, he developed an interest in spinal deformities and complex spinal reconstructions. He completed fellowships in complex spine surgery in San Diego, California, and Zurich, Switzerland. His fellowship training specifically focused on scoliosis, spinal deformity, spinal tumors and minimally invasive surgical techniques.<\/p>\n Learn more: barrowneuro.org<\/a><\/p>\n Samuel Unzek Freiman, MD, Astra Healthcare: Double-board certified in cardiology and internal medicine.<\/p>\n Juan Uribe, MD<\/p>\n Barrow Neurological Institute<\/p>\n Background:Dr. Uribe is chief of the Division of Spinal Disorders, Volker K. H. Sonntag Chair for Spine Research, and vice chairman of neurosurgery at Barrow Neurological Institute. He is board certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery. He was named president and chair of the AANS\/CNS Section on Disorders of Spine and the Peripheral Nerves in 2024. Dr. Uribe\u2019s expertise includes the surgical treatment of scoliosis, spinal trauma,\u00a0herniated thoracic disc and\u00a0spinal tumors, particularly with\u00a0minimally invasive spine surgery.<\/p>\n Learn more: barrowneuro.org<\/a><\/p>\n Allan M. Wachter, MD, Ahwatukee Foothills Allergy: Treats asthma, nasal allergy, hives, food allergies and related immunologic conditions.<\/p>\n Tom Waliser, MD<\/p>\n Owner, Arizona Gynecology Consultants<\/p>\n Background: Dr. Waliser started his medical career at age 18 in the Navy as a surgical technologist. After medical school and residency, he was accepted into a newly developed fellowship in Advanced Laparoscopy and Hysteroscopy and has been performing minimally invasive gynecologic surgery for over 25 years.<\/p>\n Trend to watch: \u201cI am concerned that private practice will continue to dwindle due to increasing costs of running a private practice and decreasing reimbursement from insurance companies. Fortunately, at Arizona Gynecology Consultants, we are continuing the fight to thrive in a private practice setting.\u201d<\/p>\n Source of pride: \u201cI was one of the pioneers in advancing the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, which resulted in smaller scars, less pain and a much quicker recovery. Today the majority of gynecologic surgeries are performed using minimally invasive techniques.\u201d<\/p>\n Learn more: azgyn.com<\/a><\/p>\n Thomas J. Wall, MD, Athletic Institute Of Medicine: Board-certified orthopedic surgeon with specialization in sports medicine.<\/p>\n Maegen J. Wallace, MD, Phoenix Children\u2019s: Pediatric orthopaedic surgery.<\/p>\n Molly F. Walsh, DO\u00a0, Niagara Plastics: Cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the breast, body, face and aesthetics.<\/p>\n Mark Wang, MD, Desert Institute for Spine Care: Spinal care.<\/p>\n Michael White, MD<\/p>\n Executive vice president, chief clinical officer, Valleywise Health<\/p>\n Background: In his role, Dr. White works to advance the Mission, Vision and Values of Valleywise Health to improve clinical outcomes, enhance patient experience and grow key programs. He also serves as a liaison with Valleywise Health\u2019s partners at District Medical Group and the Creighton University Arizona Health Education Alliance.<\/p>\n Pivotal moment: \u201cThe pivotal moment came early in my career when I expanded working from direct patient care to administrative leadership. I realized that to truly influence outcomes at scale, I needed to help shape the systems behind the care. Accepting a role that bridged clinical expertise with strategic oversight allowed me to advocate for both patients and providers. That decision sparked a passion for transforming healthcare delivery, aligning clinical excellence with operational efficiency and mentoring future leaders. It taught me that leadership is not about authority \u2014 it\u2019s about service, vision and the courage to challenge the status quo.\u201d<\/p>\n Trends to watch in healthcare: \u201cIn 2026, healthcare will continue its shift toward personalized, data-driven care. AI and predictive analytics will enhance diagnostics and operational efficiency, but human-centered design will remain critical. Workforce challenges will persist, requiring innovative staffing models and renewed focus on clinician well-being. Behavioral health integration, value-based care and health equity will dominate strategic priorities.\u201d<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Dr-Kristopher-Alpers-150x150.jpg\")
Dr. Kristopher Alpers<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Anthony-Admire-150x150.png\")
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