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2020 We present our 2020 list of the area’s top physicians in 54 specialties, as chosen by their peers Lubbock Magazine’s Top Docs list is compiled through a nominationsbased voting process. We reached out to area doctors and asked them to vote for other physicians in a variety of specialties. These doctors voted for their peers who exemplify excellence in their chosen specialty. Our Top Docs list is a reader service, designed to allow our readers the opportunity to find the city’s top doctors, and find the right doctor for their needs. It’s also an occasion to celebrate those listed for their accomplishments and reputation. Additionally, it allows local doctors to make the community aware of their specific specialty and expertise. Lubbock Magazine contracted with DataJoe, a software and research company specializing in data collection and verification, to compile our Top Docs list. We recognize there are many good doctors who are not shown in this representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within the region. Inclusion in the list is based on the opinions of responding doctors in the region and the results of our research campaign. We take time and energy to ensure fair voting, although we understand that the results of this survey nomination are not an objective metric. We certainly do not discount the fact that many good and effective doctors may not appear on the list.
2020
BRINGING EXPERT CARE TO CLINICS + HOSPITALS ACROSS LUBBOCK Patricia Aristimuno, M.D.
Allan Haynes, M.D.
Michael Phy, D.O.
Cody Beaver, M.D.
Jamie Haynes, M.D.
Mark Reedy, M.D.
Jose Beceiro, M.D.
Sarah Hosford, M.D.
Catherine Ronaghan, M.D.
Audra Bowman, M.D.
Thomas Howe, M.D.
Dixon Santana, M.D.
George Brindley, M.D.
Winslo Idicula, M.D.
Ariel Santos, M.D.
Steven Brooks, M.D.
Ebtesam Islam, M.D.
Scott Shurmur, M.D.
Thomas Cammack, M.D.
Leigh Ann Jenkins, M.D.
Jordan Simpson, M.D.
Tammy Camp, M.D.
Mark Jenkins, M.D.
Cloyce Stetson, M.D.
Cyrus Caroom, M.D.
Lara Johnson, M.D.
Ashley Sturgeon, M.D.
Ronald Cook, D.O.
Catherine Jones, M.D.
James Tarbox, M.D.
Joehassin Cordero, M.D.
Cynthia Jumper, M.D.
Michelle Tarbox, M.D.
Summer Davies, M.D.
Kelly Klein, M.D.
Victor Test, M.D.
Miles Day, M.D.
Richard Lampe, M.D.
Lukman Tijani, M.D.
Joshua Demke, M.D.
Brendan MacKay, M.D.
Surendra Varma, M.D.
John DeToledo, M.D.
David McCartney, M.D.
Sarah Wakefield, M.D.
Michel Diab, M.D.
Ana Rivas- Mejia, M.D.
V. Mark Williams, M.D.
Sharmila Dissanaike, M.D.
Kelly Mitchell, M.D.
Richard Winn, M.D.
Yusuf Dundar, M.D.
Felix Morales, M.D.
Edward Yeomans, M.D.
David Edwards, M.D.
Thomas Nelius, M.D.
Andres Yepes, M.D.
Stephen Gates, M.D.
Tam Nguyen, M.D.
Mimi Zumwalt, M.D.
John Griswold, M.D.
Kenneth Nugent, M.D.
Ari Halldorsson, M.D.
Jennifer Phy, D.O.
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2020 How was the list created? To create the Top Docs list, DataJoe Research facilitated an online peer-voting process, also referencing government sources. DataJoe then tallied the votes per category for each doctor to isolate the top nominees in each category. After collecting nominations and additional information, DataJoe checked and confirmed that each published winner had a current, active license status with the state regulatory board. If we were not able to find evidence of a doctor’s current, active registration with the state regulatory board, that doctor was excluded from the list. In addition, any doctor who has been disciplined, up to the time-frame of our review process for an infraction by the state regulatory board, was excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied result to Lubbock Magazine for final review and adjustments.
How are nominations obtained? Lubbock Magazine and DataJoe
reached out to practices and individuals through mail-outs, emails, and phone calls, and encouraged them to vote and distribute the ballot amongst their peers.
What information was required to make a Top Docs nomination? Every doctor must provide a valid, active license number and contact information to identify themselves. This ensures fairness in the voting process by confirming that each doctor completes only one ballot.
How are practice areas determined? Our list is compiled of
specialties that are relevant to the Lubbock area. We recognize that there are many specialties, and that this list is not exhaustive. Additional practice areas will be considered in coming years based on interest from the medical community.
Do doctors pay to be on the Top Docs list? Doctors can’t pay to
be on the list; it is facilitated and tallied by DataJoe. After receiving the list from DataJoe, our Advertising Department gave area doctors the opportunity to purchase profiles in our Doctors of Distinction Special Advertising Section, which appears separately from the list. Whether or not a doctor chooses to advertise in Doctors of Distinction has no influence on their inclusion on the list.
DataJoe uses best practices and exercises great care in assembling content for this list. DataJoe does not warrant that the data contained within the list are complete or accurate. DataJoe does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. All rights reserved. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without written permission from DataJoe.
Allergy Immunology
Suzanne A. Beck, M.D. Robert Mamlok, M.D. Goutam Pada Shome, M.D. James Tarbox, M.D.
Anesthesiology
Raymond Danchak, M.D. Brian C. Eppright, M.D. Robin Minielly, M.D.
Cardiology
W. Chuck Brogan III, M.D., Ph.D. Leigh Ann Jenkins, M.D. Mohammad Otahbachi, M.D. Colbert Perez, M.D. M. Alan Sharif, M.D. Scott Shurmur, M.D. Paul D. Walter, M.D.
Cardiothoracic Surgery
Ari Halldorsson, M.D. Benjamin A. Hirsch, M.D. Ralph Francis Paone, M.D. Donald J. Robertson, M.D. William E. Springer, M.D.
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TOP DOCS 2019 • SPECIAL SECTION
Cosmetic Surgery
Patricia Arledge, M.D. R. Clark Mooty, M.D. Robert P. Schmid, M.D.
Dermatology
Amy Brackeen, M.D. Bryan Harris, M.D. Richard Hope, M.D. Brent Paulger, M.D. Cloyce Stetson, M.D. Ashley Sturgeon, M.D. Michelle Tarbox, M.D.
Diagnostic Radiology
Niska Blevins, M.D. Brian Bruening, M.D. James Henderson, M.D. Carson L. Johnson, M.D. Bharat Kakarala, M.D. Gary Simmons, M.D. Thomas R. Windisch, M.D. Douglas H. Wright, M.D.
Emergency Medicine
Conrad B. Bowman, M.D. Sajjad Haider, M.D.
Scott Letbetter, M.D. Ryan Lewis, M.D. Christopher Piel, M.D. John Skelton, M.D.
Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism M.M. Bakdash, M.D. Jose Beceiro, M.D. Shaili Felton, M.D. Michael MacAdams, M.D. Ana Rivas Mejia, M.D.
Family Medicine
Roberta Beals, D.O. Jared Brinker, M.D. Beth A. Cochran, M.D. Ronald L. Cook, M.D. Chetlen Crossnoe, M.D. David S. Edwards, M.D. Andy John Gray, M.D. Jeffrey Hannel, M.D. Jamie L. Haynes, M.D. Kerry Hendershot, M.D. Damon Hill, M.D. Joel B. Landry, M.D. Michael Mendez, M.D.
Felix Morales, M.D. Randy K. Rozean, M.D. Kashif Saleem, M.D. Derek Skinner, M.D.
Gastroenterology
Houssam Al-Kharrat, M.D. Hamed Al-Tamimi, M.D. Vanessa Costilla, M.D. Elias Ghandour, M.D. Sameer Islam, M.D. Miled Jabor, M.D. Kelly P. Kensing, M.D. Timothy D. Miller, M.D. William A. Shaver, M.D.
General Surgery
Charles V. Bayouth, M.D. Steven Brooks, M.D. Sammy Deeb, M.D. Sharmila Dissanaike, M.D. John Griswold, M.D. Derick R. Haggard, M.D. Thomas Howe, M.D. Adam Purtell, M.D. Richard A. Rosen, M.D. Caleb R. Sallee, M.D.
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Ariel Santos, M.D. Tim West, M.D. V. Mark Williams, M.D.
Gynecologic Oncology Sarah Hosford, M.D. Mark Reedy, M.D.
Gynecology
Duncan Burkholder, M.D. Brent Nall, M.D.
Hand Surgery
Brendan MacKay, M.D. Desirae McKee, M.D. Patrick F. Molligan, M.D. Garry R. Pollock, M.D. Melinda Garcia Schalow, M.D. Alejandro Verdugo, M.D.
Hematology
Catherine Jones, M.D. Donald P. Quick, M.D. Kiran Kumar Yalamanchili, M.D.
Hospice and Palliative Stephen Gates, M.D. Kelly Klein, M.D.
Infectious Disease
Dennis Duriex, M.D. Mark Lacy, M.D. Richard Lampe, M.D. Fatma Levent, M.D. Richard Winn, M.D.
Internal Medicine
Tapan Nath, M.D. Michael Phy, M.D. Floyd Pirtle, M.D. Hima B. Ravi, M.D. Lakhu Rohra, M.D. Brad Snodgrass, M.D.
Interventional Cardiology
Jason Bradley, M.D. Juan Kurdi, M.D. Ramakrishnan Ranganath, M.D. John Zias, M.D.
Maternal and Fetal Medicine Billy Atkinson, M.D.
Nephrology
Patricia Aristimuno, M.D. J. Todd Rose, M.D. Larry Warmoth, M.D.
Neurological Surgery
Jason Felton, M.D. Jonathan P. Mannas, M.D.
Neurology
John Detoledo, M.D. Katie L. Hendley, M.D.
Obstetrics and Gynecology Shelly Hook, M.D. Edward Yeomans, M.D.
Oncology
David R. Close, M.D. Ibrahim A. Shalaby, M.D. Lukman Tijani, M.D.
Ophthalmology
Jay C. Bradley, M.D. Christopher G. Fuller, M.D. Timothy T. Khater, M.D. David McCartney, M.D. Kelly Mitchell, M.D. John E. Streit, M.D.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Ryan T. Higley, D.D.S.
Orthopedic Surgery
George W. Brindley, M.D. James Burke, M.D. Cyrus Caroom, M.D. Robert J. Gaines, M.D. Jeff D. Headrick, M.D. Mark Jenkins, M.D. Kim E. Pershall, M.D. Jason A. Ramsey, M.D. Mark W. Scioli, M.D. David M. Shephard II, M.D. Jordan Simpson, M.D. T. Bryan Smitherman, M.D.
Otolaryngology, Ear Nose Throat Joehassin Cordero, M.D. Joshua Demke, M.D. Yusuf Dundar, M.D. William R. Fell, M.D. Tam Q. Nguyen, M.D. Stanley E. Potocki, M.D. Philip A. Scolaro, M.D.
Pain Management
Hemmo Bosscher, M.D. Miles Day, M.D. Bolkar E. Sahinler, M.D.
Fatima Salas, M.D. Shiraz A. Yazdani, M.D.
Pathology
Melissa Blann, M.D. Dale Dunn, M.D.
Pediatric Cardiology
Andrew Robinson, M.D.
Pediatric Endocrinology Surendra K. Varma, M.D.
Kenneth Nugent, M.D. Victor Test, M.D. Shannon Turnbow, M.D. Andres Yepes-Hurtado, M.D.
Radiation Oncology
Ramzi Abdulrahman, M.D.
Radiology
Nabeel Dar, M.D. Gianluigi Fornari, M.D. Roy Jacob, M.D.
Pediatric Gastroenterology
Reproductive Endocrinology
Pediatric Orthopedics/ Orthopedic Surgery
Rheumatology
Robert Z. Simek, M.D.
Cody Beaver, M.D. Michel Diab, M.D. Amy E. Henning, D.O.
Pediatric Otolaryngology ENT
Winslow K. Idicula, M.D.
Pediatrics General
Audra Bowman, M.D. Tammy Camp, M.D. Summer D. Davies, M.D. Amanda M. Guetersloh, M.D. Lara Johnson, M.D. Douglas Klepper, M.D. Amy N. Thompson, M.D.
Pediatric Surgery
Jane F. Goldthorn, M.D.
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Roger J. Wolcott, M.D.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Jane Rowley, M.D.
Podiatry
Benjamin Fluhman, M.D.
Psychiatry
Sarah Mallard Wakefield, M.D.
Jennifer Phy, M.D.
Naga Bushan, M.D. James M. Calmes, M.D. Jitendra Vasandani, M.D.
Sleep Medicine
Bhupesh Dihenia, M.D.
Spine Surgery
Mark D. D’Alise, M.D. Richard George, M.D. Sergiy Nesterenko, M.D.
Sports Medicine
Kevin Crawford, M.D. Mimi A. Zumwalt, M.D.
Surgical Oncology
Catherine Ronaghan, M.D.
Urology
Howard W. Beck, M.D. Carl Lee Britton, Jr. , M.D. Jorge Brothers, M.D. J. Thomas Cammack, M.D. Allan L. Haynes, Jr. , M.D. Thomas Nelius, M.D. Brian E. Nicholson, M.D. Thomas C. Nicholson, M.D. Ryan Owen, M.D. Scott Spore, M.D.
Vascular Surgery
Dennis Eastman, M.D. Dixon Santana, M.D.
Pulmonology
Naidu K. Chekuru, M.D. Marque A. Hunter, M.D. Ebtesam Islam, M.D., Ph.D. Cynthia Jumper, M.D. TOP DOCS 2019 • SPECIAL SECTION
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Texas Tech Department of Surgery Specialties and subspecialties: General Surgery, Trauma, Burn, Cancer, Vascular and Thoracic Surgery Memberships and clinical associations: We are members of every major national surgical organization, with several holding national office. For what is your practice most known? We provide state-of-the-art care for all surgical conditions, from the most common to the rare and complex. We take the time to listen and discuss options, both surgical and nonsurgical, in order to provide the best care for the patient and their family. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? We utilize stateof-the-art technology in everything we do – from spraying artificial skin to treat burns to endovascular reconstruction of the aorta. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward? We continued to treat urgent, time-sensitive surgical conditions including cancers throughout the pandemic, ensuring that the Lubbock community did not suffer by having essential surgery denied, as unfortunately happened in many other parts of the country. Meanwhile, our ICU specialist surgeons stood ready to treat COVID patients as needed. Recognizing that we are more fortunate than most during these difficult times, we provided care packages with essential supplies for those who were financially insecure because of loss of work due to COVID in our local community.
Texas Tech Department of Surgery texastechphysicians.com
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STEVEN BROOKS, M.D. SHARMILA DISSANAIKE, M.D.
JOHN GRISWOLD, M.D. ARI HALLDORSSON, M.D.
CATHERINE RONAGHAN, M.D. DIXON SANTANA, M.D.
ARIEL SANTOS, M.D. V. MARK WILLIAMS, M.D.
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Texas Tech Orthopaedics Year established: 1971 Specialties and subspecialties: Children’s Orthopaedics, Foot and Ankle, Hand and Microvascular, Joint Reconstruction, Musculoskeletal Oncology, Sports Medicine and Trauma Memberships and clinical associations: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; American Association for Hand Surgery; American Society for Surgery of the Hand; American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons; Texas Orthopaedic Association; American Orthopaedic Association; Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America; Clinical Orthopaedic Society; Mid-America Orthopaedic Association; American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society; American Hip and Knee Society; Orthopaedic Trauma Association; American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine; Lubbock County Medical Society; Texas Medical Association; Ruth Jackson
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Orthopaedic Society For what is your practice most known? Our board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons provide specialized care to the people of West Texas, the Texas Panhandle and Eastern New Mexico, including orthopaedic trauma coverage at the region’s level 1 trauma center. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? Our surgeons are excited to use the latest technology in surgery to improve patient outcomes. They are currently involved in developing implants for fracture fixation, advancing new technological updates in nerve graft surgery and are involved in international total joint outcomes studies. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward?
We continue to evolve our practice in the wake of COVID-19. Initially, we were able to jump-start telemedicine, and now as we are moving to re-start elective surgical cases and increasing the number of patients we see in our clinics, we are working to ensure the safety of our patients, staff and providers. Some precautions we are taking include requiring face coverings for all patients, providers and staff, ensuring we maintain social distancing in lobby areas, continued telemedicine visits, and rigorous disinfectant and hygiene processes. Community involvement: As a practice we take pride in supporting our community. Some specific organizations we have supported in the past year include the South Plains Food Bank, Susan G. Komen, Lubbock Impact and the C.A.R.E Center.
General & Specialty Orthopaedics TTUHSC Medical Pavilion 3601 Fourth St., Fourth Floor • 743.4263 Orthopaedic Hand Center UMC Medical Office Plaza II 808 Joliet Ave., Suite 210 • 743.4600 Pediatric Orthopaedics Covenant Medical Office Building 4102 24th St., Suite 508 • 743.4263
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Covenant Orthopedic Trauma Service The Orthopedic Trauma Service (OTS) offered at Covenant Medical Center is directed by the section Chief of Orthopedics, Dr. Robert Gaines. The team is comprised of advanced practice nurse practitioners Fred Sebastian, MPAS PA-C; Kendra Guerra, APRN FNP-C; Brandy Trevino, APRN FNP-C; Cristan Ledbetter, APRN FNP-C; Stacey Kelly, APRN FNP-C, as well as clinical nurses and assistants Mandy Sauskis, LVN; Crystal Smith, MA; Crystal Reyes, CMA ; and Kendra Gomez, CMA. Specialties and subspecialties: Dr. Gaines is board certified in
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orthopedic surgery with specialty training in orthopedic trauma, and served in the United States Navy with combat trauma experience in Afghanistan. For what is your practice most known? The expertise and compassion for the families of West Texas drives every orthopedic encounter. We understand that we meet patients on one of their worst days and do everything we can to return them to their families and livelihood. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty?
As part of our medical community, we also participate in training the next generation of physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners. We do our best to instill the caring spirit into our trainees, knowing that someday they will be caring for our community and possibly ourselves. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward? Clearly there have been a few changes in the way Lubbock and our surrounding communities interact in light of the corona pandemic, but we are dedicated to your care without compromise. The orthopedic trauma service specializes in fracture care, limb salvage,
deformity correction, hand trauma, post traumatic reconstruction, and joint replacement. It is our sincere hope for our patients that they will not need our services, but if they do, we will be here and ready to serve.
Covenant Orthopedic Trauma Service 3506 21st St., Suite 507 725.4805 covmedgroup.org
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Bryan Harris, M.D. Year established: I have been in practice in Lubbock for 21 years, the last two years at Long & Harris Dermatology, with David Long, M.D. Specialties: Undergraduate education, Texas Tech University; M.D., Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center; Dermatology Residency, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation; Board certification, American Board of Dermatology Memberships and clinical associations: American Academy of Dermatology; Clinical association with Covenant Health System and Lubbock Heart Hospital For what is your practice most known? Our office offers a broad array of dermatology services, including skin cancer surgery, Mohs surgery, general dermatology, and cosmetic dermatology, including laser surgery. We pride ourselves in being able to schedule patients within one week. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty?
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Technology now allows for online scheduling and the ability for us to offer tele-dermatology for select patients. We stay up to date on the advancements in aesthetic lasers to remain competitive. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward? Patient check-in procedures have changed during the COVID pandemic; we perform temperature and symptom screening, and patients wait in their cars rather than in the lobby until their patient room is available. Enhanced patient safety measures will continue through the pandemic. Community involvement: Past Board Member and Board President of Women’s Protective Services
Long & Harris Dermatology 6102 82nd St., Suite 15 • 749.7933 lhderm.com
D O CTO R S O F DIS T INC T IO N
Roberta Beals, D.O. Years in practice: 24 Education: Northern Arizona University; Medical degree, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine; completed residency in Fort Worth, Texas, at UNT Health Science Center Specialties and subspecialties: Family Medicine, Anti-Aging Medicine, Cosmetic Medicine and Lasers, Advanced injector Memberships and clinical associations: American Osteopathic Association; Texas Medical Association Why did you choose your area of practice? I like a diversified patient interaction. I’ve enjoyed getting to work with a variety of people over the years. How do you set your practice apart? We strive to provide personalized or integrated medical, nutrition and cosmetic aesthetic options to meet our patient’s needs. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward? We spent some time retooling the practice to meet safety
standards, offering virtual appointments and social distancing. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? In addition to virtual visits, our practice uses the latest technology to help optimize patient outcomes based on best practices in the country and around the world. What is your most memorable moment in medicine? There have been so many. I am so thankful to have shared in these moments with my patients and their families. Community involvement: I have been involved with Lubbock Osteopathic Medical Foundation for 20 years. Together, we have donated millions of dollars to support people of the South Plains.
Grace Clinic 4515 Marsha Sharp Freeway • 744.7223 gracehealthsystem.com DOCTORS OF DISTINCTION • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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Duncan Burkholder, M.D. Years in practice: Starting 34th year of practice Education: New Mexico Military Institute, AA; Texas Tech University, BA; UTMB Health System, MD; TTUHSC, OB/GYN Residency Specialties and subspecialties: Gynecology Memberships and clinical associations: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Member; Chief Medical Officer, Grace Health System Why did you choose your area of practice? I never had intentions of being an OB/GYN but felt “called” into the practice. It was the right fit for my personality and skill set, plus, I truly enjoy the specialty. How do you set your practice apart? I treat all my patients as if they were my own wife, daughter or sister and provide them with the same level of care and compassion. I communicate with my patients in terms easy for them to understand. I let them ask all their questions, taking as much time as they need, and always offer a full explanation. I offer options for them and if surgery is the best solution, my patients can rest assured they are in good hands. I love being able to help women obtain the quality of life that they deserve. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward? Our approach to the health and safety of both our patents and staff 44
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has changed. We are more focused on techniques to ensure the safest experience possible for all. Elective surgeries were cancelled for a month, which impacted my practice, but we are starting to see those pick up again because my patients are confident in our safety measures. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? It has increased access for our patients in many ways. Patients can view their records, communicate with their physician, and even book an appointment online. That’s very different from when my practice first began. We are transitioning to an Epic system later this year, and at the new Covenant Health Grace Surgical Hospital, that will be a tremendous service to our patients. What is your most memorable moment in medicine? Obeying discernment from the Lord and helping save a baby with the umbilical cord wrapped around its neck five times! Community involvement: 20 years on the Board of Directors, First Bank and Trust; Medical Director, Parkridge; Texas Tech Alumni Association member and supporter; Texas Tech Chancellor Council Chairman
Grace Clinic 4515 Marsha Sharp Freeway • 744.7223 gracehealthsystem.com
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Chetlen Crossnoe, M.D. Years in practice: 14 Education: MD/PhD Specialties and subspecialties: Family Medicine Memberships and clinical associations: American Academy of Family Physicians Why did you choose your area of practice? I liked the idea of seeing the whole scope of medicine. How do you set your practice apart? I particularly enjoy teaching. I like like to explain medical concepts and issues to patients. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward? We have started virtual visits. We still need to see patients for yearly exams and many types of problems, but for followups and some other things, virtual visits may be very quick and
convenient for patients. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? Ask me again in a year after we implement our new electronic medical record, Epic. It will be an asset for physicians and patients. I am looking forward to it. What is your most memorable moment in medicine? Honestly, being trusted by my patients to care for them, and their families, makes it all a memorable experience for me.
Grace Clinic 4515 Marsha Sharp Freeway • 744.7223 gracehealthsystem.com
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Bhupesh Dihenia, M.D. Years in Practice: 23 Education: Undergraduate, Washington University in St. Louis; Medical School, University of Illinois at Chicago; Internship in Internal Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City; Residency, Emory University; Fellowships, Emory University Specialty and subspecialties: Neurology, Sleep Medicine and Neuroimaging Memberships: American Academy of Sleep Medicine; American Academy of Neurology; The American Society of Neuroimaging Why did you choose your area of practice? The general understanding of the brain and the nervous system is in its infancy. There is much opportunity to participate in research in this less established field. I enjoy research and bringing new treatments to diseases which were previously less understood. Sleep medicine is fascinating. We do not all sleep the same. Helping individuals sleep better is very rewarding. How do you set your practice apart? My staff consists of intelligent and compassionate caregivers. We prioritize our patient’s and their family’s needs above all. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward?
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We have learned many lessons from this pandemic. We have learned to adapt to telemedicine. We were already doing some visits online, but this has forced us to be safe and reduce our patient’s exposure to possible infections.. We miss seeing and examining our patients in person. The spiritual aspect of healing can be provided through technology in the absence of direct contact. What is your most memorable moment in medicine? The many patients who participate in our research studies, especially for treatment of MS that can improve their neurological outcomes. The delight those patients feel when new drugs come to the market because of their contribution is rewarding. My staff and I feel it’s our privilege to care for the Eastern New Mexico and West Texas area individuals that have a need for neurological or sleep medicine care. Community involvement: Deliver Meals on Wheels, Volunteer Center of Lubbock, and Lubbock Center for Global Understanding
Grace Neurology Center 3815 23rd St. • 722.3500 gracehealthsystem.com
D O CTO R S O F DIS T INC T IO N
Shelly Hook, M.D. Years in practice: 10 Education: Texas Tech University; Texas Tech Health Sciences Center School of Medicine; OB/GYN Residency at TTUSHC Specialties and subspecialties: Obstetrics and Gynecology Memberships and clinical associations: Board certified by American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Why did you choose your area of practice? I truly have a passion for women’s health and the gynecological surgical subspecialty. Delivering babies is one of my favorite things. How do you set your practice apart? I also hold a PhD in Psychology and use that knowledge to provide my patients with an experience that tends to their needs in every aspect. I am an advocate in their decision-making process to equip them with all the knowledge they need to have the experience they desire. I also acknowledge what a privilege it is to be part of someone welcoming a baby into the world, and do not take that lightly. I feel honored to be part of the family’s big moment. They are the captain of the ship; I am just there to help steer the boat. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward?
I have taken necessary precautions to ensure my patients, especially my OB patients, are staying safe. I have begun virtual appointments to allow patients to stay home when possible, and for those I see in person, I practice all proper PPE measures. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? I feel virtual visits will continue to be a great option for my patients for a variety of reasons. What is your most memorable moment in medicine? I have specialized training and a skillset that allowed me to recently deliver a set of triplets vaginally. I was able to provide that mother a delivery experience that many would not. Community involvement: Supporter of Christ the King Cathedral School and Purpose Medical Mission, Grace Clinic 501A Board Member, active member at Westminster Presbyterian Church
Grace Clinic 4515 Marsha Sharp Freeway • 744.7223 gracehealthsystem.com DOCTORS OF DISTINCTION • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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Brent B. Nall, M.D. Years in practice: 37 Education: BS in Chemistry, Texas Tech University; UT Southwestern Medical Center; Residency in OB/GYN, Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center Specialty: Obstetrics and gynecology, Board Certified; Certification in Business of Medicine Member: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Texas Medical Association, American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology Why did you choose your area of practice? A nationally recognized professor in OB/GYN at Southwestern Medical Center, the late Norman Gant, asked me to consider it after my senior year in Medical School. Working hard in my specialty has allowed me to help women from all walks of life and improve their medical care. How do you set your practice apart? My training included everything from high-risk obstetrics to gynecological cancer care and the associated surgery. I now concentrate on gynecology and minimally invasive and vaginal surgery. I also offer endometrial ablation hysteroscopy, laparoscopy and other procedures to make recovery rapid while improving patient’s lives. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 48
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affected your practice and how will it change going forward? COVID-19 has been a great shock in many ways. It has mainly caused temporary loss in patient visits that will recover. One of my main goals during the disruption has been to ensure that my staff practices the best public health techniques. I want all patients to know that my practice is a comfortable, up-to-date, and especially safe place to get care. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? My office has structured “virtual visits” for many patients with primarily consultation needs and for those at-risk patients or those that live with high-risk family members. The electronic health record and our patient portal give patients 24/7 access to their records and lab/imaging results even before I can personally talk to them. What is your most memorable moment in medicine? Being present for my children’s births; delivering triplets Community involvement: First Methodist Church, Second Helpings food aid, Mayor’s Teen Pregnancy Task Force
Grace Clinic 4515 Marsha Sharp Freeway • 744.7223 gracehealthsystem.com
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Sergiy Nesterenko, M.D. Year established: 2014 Education: Medical School in Ukraine; completed orthopedic surgery residency and fellowship in Ukraine, and then moved to the U.S. in 2006; two-year research at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota; five-year residency program in orthopedic surgery at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland; year-long fellowship in spine surgery at Cleveland Clinic Specialties and subspecialties: Orthopedic surgeon focused on spine surgery Memberships and clinical associations: Board-certified in orthopedic surgery; member of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; North American Spine Society; AO Spine North America; Ukrainian Medical Association of North America Why did you choose your area of practice? I was attracted to orthopedic surgery because of its ability to help people improve their quality of life and because of the technical aspects. Spinerelated problems are not only very prevalent in people, but also appeared to be the most challenging part of musculoskeletal medicine. The challenge is what attracted me to spine surgery and the reward of seeing my patients getting better is what keeps me going. How do you set your practice apart? Personalized care and the shared decision making is what we take pride in. While surgery is a powerful tool under the right circumstances, not every patient will require it in order to get better. Taking time to talk to people and finding the right solutions for their spine-related problems is an enjoyable part of my practice.
2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward? The novel coronavirus made us rethink many aspects of life. Many of our patients were not able to travel and meet in person. Telemedicine was one of the solutions that we implemented to talk to our patients. We also started additional practices during the in-person appointments to keep the patients and our team-members safe. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? Orthopedic surgery is a very technological field. Over the past 20 years there have been a number of innovations in spine surgery that continue to push the boundaries of the impossible. The most recent developments include integration of navigation techniques and robotics in the operating room. This allows us to improve precision and safety for patients with more challenging conditions. What is your most memorable moment in medicine? Seeing my patients returning to the office without pain. Community involvement: I am a secretary on the board of directors with the American Ukrainian Medical Foundation, a nonprofit organization that serves as a platform for cooperation and mutual enrichment between Ukraine and the United States.
Grace Clinic 4515 Marsha Sharp Freeway • 744.7223 gracehealthsystem.com DOCTORS OF DISTINCTION • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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Ramakrishnan Ranganath, M.D. , MBBS, MRCP Years in practice: 13 years in the U.S. and 8 in the United Kingdom Education: MBBS; MD; member of the Royal College of Physicians Specialties and subspecialties: Internal medicine, cardiovascular medicine, interventional cardiology Memberships: American College of Physicians; member of the Royal College of Physicians; Diplomate of the National Board of Echocardiography; Diplomate of the certification board of nuclear cardiology Why did you choose your area of practice? It is a great balance between the abstract world of internal medicine and surgical specialties with a good mix of imaging work. It is also a field with a great amount of research and state-of-the-art technology. How do you set your practice apart? Even though I am primarily a cardiologist, I am grounded in internal medicine with extensive training in three different countries and feel comfortable managing internal medical issues. As a result, my patients are often able to get adequate care without having to visit multiple physicians. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward? 50
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COVID created challenges but we continued to see patients while we adhered to the guidelines from TMB. I do not think virtual visits work in my practice where thorough physical exam is necessary, so we continued to see patients while following proper guidelines, and people were grateful. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? We pride ourselves in limiting ER visits as we are able to see patients quickly and on short notice. What is your most memorable moment in medicine? Caring for a young woman who had post-partum cardiomyopathy after she was airlifted from Bosnia during the war in 2003. I was at a heart transplant center in London at that time, and she was very sick with a 1-week-old baby. I was part of a team that cared for her. She had an LVAD and eventually pulled through without needing a transplant.
Grace Clinic 2412 50th St. • 744.7223 gracehealthsystem.com
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Fatima L. Salas, M.D., MPH Years in practice: 10 Education: Medical Degree and a Master in Public Health, Tufts University School of Medicine; U.S. Navy Health Professions Scholarships Program; internship and residency training in Anesthesiology, St. Vincent’s Catholic Medical Center at New York Medical College and Brigham & Women’s Hospital at Harvard Medical School; Interventional Pain Medicine fellowships, Brigham & Women’s Hospital at Harvard Medical School; fellow in Pain Medicine and Attending Anesthesiologist, Brigham & Women’s Hospital at Harvard Medical Center Specialties and Subspecialties: Double-board certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, American Board of Anesthesiology; American Board of Pain Medicine Memberships and Clinical Associations: Member, American Board of Anesthesiology; American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians; American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine; North American Neuromodulation Society; The Society of Women Innovators in Pain Management; Texas Pain Society; Texas Medical Association; Lubbock County Medical Society Why did you choose your area of practice? A desire to improve the quality of life of patients. Chronic pain is complex and multifaceted. It affects everyday activities and can lead to other physical, mental and emotional problems. The field of pain management allows me to impact the lives of patients with various interventional procedures. Helping to minimize my patient’s pain, seeing quality of life improve, or hearing positive stories from a patient’s family fuels my passion. How do you set your practice apart? I develop a personalized and comprehensive plan to help alleviate a patient’s pain. I spend
time talking about their symptoms and goals. I am very thorough regarding patient safety during interventional procedures. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward? COVID-19 has affected my practice greatly with limited ability to perform interventional treatments and decreased volume to maintain appropriate distancing and sanitizing techniques. These changes have challenged us to quickly adapt and opened up the opportunity to expand telehealth. I am able to do follow-ups via video chat or telephone. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? Technology has allowed us to perform interventional treatments with improved safety and accuracy through the use of radiological imaging, such as fluoroscopy and ultrasound as well as assist with proper diagnosis through MRI, CT, nuclear bone scans, etc. What is your most memorable moment in medicine? During my time as a medical officer in the U.S. Navy, I was deployed to Afghanistan and served in a hospital on the front lines. I was able to provide life-saving care to members of all branches of military as well as our allies. Community involvement: Purpose Medical Mission; Make-A-Wish Foundation; March of Dimes; Lubbock Meals-On-Wheels; Catholic Diocese of Lubbock; an active member at Christ the King Cathedral
Grace Clinic 4515 Marsha Sharp Freeway • 744.7223 gracehealthsystem.com DOCTORS OF DISTINCTION • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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Alejandro Verdugo, M.D. Years in practice: 7 Education: Anahuac University School of Medicine, Magna Cum Laude; Orthopedic Surgery Residency, ABC Medical Center Specialties and subspecialties: Pediatric Orthopedics; Adolescent and Young Adult Hip Preservation; Hand and Upper Extremity; Sports Medicine Memberships and clinical associations: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; American Arthroscopy Association of North America; Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America; ISHA; SICOT; American Medical Association; Texas Orthopaedic Association How do you set your practice apart? Stay on the cutting-edge of treatment with constant improvements on patient treatments. Only hip preservation specialist in the area. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 52
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affected your practice and how will it change going forward? Lots of things have to be reevaluated; the whole patient experience has to change in order to keep patients and our staff safe. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? Orthopaedics is a very technologically oriented field; we are always looking for the best and newest technology to get patients back on their feet in as little time as possible. What is your most memorable moment in medicine? Every time I get a sincere “thank you” from one of my patients and I know I have made a difference in their life!
Grace Clinic 2412 50th St. • 744.7223 gracehealthsystem.com
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Richard H. Hope, M.D. Year established/years in practice: 1995; 25 years Education: Bachelor of Science, Angelo State University; Doctor of Medicine, University of Health Sciences Center at San Antonio; Intern, Internal Medicine, Arkansas Health Sciences Center; Resident in Dermatology, Specialties and subspecialties: General Dermatology; skin cancer diagnosis and treatments; Mohs surgery; laser surgery; cosmetic dermatology Memberships and clinical associations: American Academy of Dermatology; American Medical Association; Texas Medical Association; American Society for Mohs Surgery; Texas Tech Health Sciences Center Department of Dermatology; Clinical Assistant Professor; Covenant Health Partners Why did you choose your area of practice? I take care of patients of all ages and genders. Many have a one-time, easily treated condition and others have more chronic and challenging diseases. The surgical aspect of dermatology is very satisfying, as I get to create a surgical cure for skin cancers and other conditions. The cosmetic side of dermatology is enjoyable as patients come see us because they “want to” and not because they “have to.” How do you set your practice apart? We are a full-service dermatology clinic, treating all dermatology conditions from minor rashes to severe and challenging chronic skin diseases. We offer many different treatment options for skin cancers. In-office surgery is a major part of our practice. Our cosmetic clinic, Laser Dynamics, provides skin care solutions, including “walk-in” Botox, as well as effective skin care products.
2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected you practice and how will it change going forward? At the onset, only patients with skin cancers and severe skin disease could come get care. Now, more patients are feeling comfortable coming to the clinic while we all practice the “Lubbock Safe” guidelines. I feel we will have a new “normal” going forward with more awareness toward prevention of infectious diseases. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? Advancements in laser and light-based treatments have given us more options for treating common skin conditions as well as cosmetic conditions. What is your most memorable moment in medicine? My father, Sherman Hope, M.D., was a family practice physician for 40 years in Brownfield, and we co-developed a software program to keep medical records in the clinic. As a new doctor and early in my dermatology residency, we had the opportunity to present our software ideas to congress in Washington, D.C., during the Clinton presidency. We were the only physicians present when Bill Clinton presented his “health care card” to the country on TV. Community involvement: We support the Polycystic Kidney Foundation, South Plains Kidney Foundation, Monterey Church of Christ, Texas Boys Ranch, South Plains Food Bank, Meals on Wheels, Team Luke Hope for Minds and others.
Lubbock Dermatology 3601 22nd St. • 796.7193 • lubbockdermatology.com DOCTORS OF DISTINCTION • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Institute Year established: Established in 2016 by Drs. Jeff and Amy Brackeen, who have a combined 19 years practicing dermatology. Education: Drs. Amy and Jeff Brackeen graduated from Texas A&M University Medical School and Texas Tech University with a dermatology residency, where they both served as chief residents. Dr. Jeff Brackeen also completed a pathology residency at Texas Tech. Specialties and subspecialties: Dermatology, Skin Cancer Surgery, Cosmetic Dermatology Memberships: American Board of Dermatology; The American Society of Mohs Surgery; American Society for Dermatologic Surgery; Skin Cancer Foundation Amonette Circle Members Clinical associations: Covenant Health System; University Medical Center Why did you choose your area of practice? Dermatology allows us to provide surgical, medical and cosmetic care and affords an opportunity to develop long-lasting relationships with our patients. How do you set your practice apart? Not only do we strive to provide the best and most up-to-date dermatologic care possible, we endeavor to treat our patients like family. We believe that caring for our clients is a privilege and try to make our office a happy place where we not only provide care but actually do care. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward? We implemented numerous safety protocols early including taking patients directly to exam rooms, sanitizing rooms, and increasing 54
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the use of telemedicine visits among others. We believe the increased use of telemedicine for some visits will continue, as will our commitment to providing a safe and sanitary clinic. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? We live in a rapidly changing world. As advancements in technology occur in dermatology, we incorporate them into our practice whenever appropriate to give our patients the best care available. We have dermatology-specific electronic medical records, make use of telemedicine, and have incorporated new technologies, which include being the only practice in West Texas to offer SRT-100 (nonsurgical skin cancer treatment) and the first in the nation to have the newest photodynamic therapy treatment for precancers of the skin (BF-RhodoLED and Ameluz). What is your most memorable moment in medicine? Dr. Jeff’s most memorable moment in medicine is providing care for our military in the Middle East as a flight surgeon. Dr. Amy has many memorable moments. Above all, she cherishes the friendships she has made with her patients. Community involvement: Our clinic participates in and hosts AAD Skin cancer screenings, ASDS skin cancer screenings, as well as “Skin Cancer Take a Hike” events. We have hosted community educational events and help with Adopt-a-Highway.
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Institute 4709 66th St. • 701.5844 • lubbockskin.com
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James Todd Rose, M.D. Year established/Years in practice: Established in 2004; 16 years in private practice Education: Medical School and fellowship completed at Texas Tech School of Medicine Specialties and subspecialties: Nephrology How do you set your practice apart? My small staff provides excellent support behind the scenes, which allows me to see patients with limited interruptions. My patients get to know my office staff and my P.A., which encourages their continuation of care. 2020 has been an unprecedented year. How has COVID-19 affected your practice and how will it change going forward? Complying with the state and local restrictions has reduced clinic care to keep patients, as well as my staff, safe. I hope to return to a
safe normal soon. How has technology affected how you practice your specialty? I am grateful to our dialysis centers for encouraging telemedicine visits for higher-risk patients, which has greatly reduced COVID-19 positive cases. What is your most memorable moment in medicine? I continually enjoy getting to know my patients and their families over the years.
James Todd Rose, M.D. 4417 71st St., Suite 42 • 799.2991
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