“I felt my calling to be a physician at an early age; I was in the 8th grade. Hospitalized for three weeks with an appendicitis / peritonitis, I was immersed in an environment that married medicine, science, and surgery for the purpose of helping others and saving lives. And I was hooked. In fact, it was one of two watershed moments that year that would guide my life, the other being that I met the girl who is now my wife of 33 years.
During my academic tenure, I was extremely fortunate to participate in laryngeal cancer research directed by the late Gerald Gussack, MD, a renowned ENT specialist who became my mentor. I came to share his profound enthusiasm for Otolaryngology, and the subspecialty of head and neck surgery. In turn, I endeavored to inspire that same passion in my students and colleagues during my years as a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at the University of South Florida, and as the Chief of Otolaryngology at St. Joseph’s Hospital (Tampa.)
I am expertly trained in the broad spectrum of ENT conditions and treatments impacting both adults and children, with particular interest in head and neck cancer surgery, thyroid and parotid surgery, and sinus surgery. Patients of all ages are welcome.
I have been in practice 26-plus years, and from day one to this moment, treating patients like family has always been at the heart of my mission as a doctor. Whether I am helping someone with simple ear wax removal or to be rid of serious disease, I am singularly focused on providing timely, compassionate care, keeping them engaged and informed, and improving their quality of life.
Every day, I strive to live out Mother Theresa’s advice that we ‘do small things with great love.’”
Education
Undergraduate: Spring Hill College, Mobile, AL
Medical Degree: University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL
Residency: Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA (Chief Resident)
Residency: General Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
Board Certifications
American Board of Otolaryngology
Office Locations
Spring Hill
Tampa
Trinity
Visit our locations page for more information.
Distinctions
Chief of Otolaryngology, St. Joseph’s Hospital, Tampa, FL (2005-2008)
Clinical Assistant Professor / Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL (1995-2000)
Hospital Privileges
Bravera Health (Spring Hill)
St. Joseph’s Hospital (Tampa)
Mease Countryside
Mease Dunedin
BayCare Alliant (Dunedin)
Morton Plant Hospital
Professional Memberships
American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Society.
American Laryngological, Rhinological, and Otological Society (Triological Society)
American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy
Florida Society of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery
Florida Medical Association
Hillsborough County Medical Association