Steward Orthopedic & Sports Medicine physicians named team doctors

While basketball guard Devin Booker is already drawing “MVP” chants, the Phoenix Suns and Mercury have named another valuable addition to their roster: Steward Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center physicians as their Official Team Doctors.

“We are confident that under the close eye and expertise of Steward Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center doctors, our Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury players will continue to train at an elite level and receive the best care possible should they need it,” said Jason Rowley, President & CEO of the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury.

World-renowned orthopedic surgeon Thomas R. Carter, MD, Head Team Physician for the Phoenix Suns for the past 18 years, recently joined the Steward Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, a Steward Medical Group practice. The same expert care he provides to the elite basketball players is now available to everyday athletes for all sports injuries. Steward Health Care has been a partner of the Phoenix Suns since 2017. 

“The naming of Steward Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center as the Official Team Doctors of the Phoenix Suns and Mercury bolsters the strong relationship we have already forged,” said Dr. Carter. “The steadfast commitment we have to the basketball teams is the same commitment we provide to residents and neighbors of our community.”

Steward Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center has also expanded its team of exceptional providers. C. Dain Allred, MD, an orthopedic and sports medicine surgeon with extensive experience in arthroscopy and surgery of the shoulder, knee, and ankle, recently joined the practice. He also currently serves as a Team Physician for the Phoenix Suns, alongside Dr. Carter.

“Being the official team doctors for the Phoenix Suns and Mercury is an enormous responsibility as they chase their dream of a championship title,” said Dr. Allred. “The opportunity to care for athletes at the top levels of their game keeps our skills sharp and benefits all of our patients.”

The medical care of members of the Phoenix Mercury is overseen by Dr. Amy Overlin, a family medicine and sports medicine physician, and Dr. Leah Brown, who specializes in sports medicine with a focus on treatment of the knee, shoulder, and elbow.

Dr. Allred, Dr. Carter, Dr. Overlin, Dr. Brown, and their colleagues at Steward Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center are accepting new patients in their five locations throughout the Valley. In addition to premier orthopedic and sports medicine care, the Center also offers physical medicine and rehabilitation, spine, podiatry and rheumatology care. Appointments may be scheduled by calling the practice locations. For appointments in Phoenix or Tempe, call 602-553-3113. For appointments in Mesa, call 480-354-5900.

Southwest Behavioral & Health Services’ Dr. Wendy Bunn earns Patriot Award

The United States Office of the Secretary of Defense recognized Southwest Behavioral & Health Services’ Dr. Wendy Bunn PsyD for contributing to national security and protecting liberty and freedom by supporting employee participation in the United States Army Reserve. The Patriot Award reflects the efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide-range of measures including flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployments, caring for families, and granting leaves of absence if needed. 

“Dr. Bunn took the time to learn about the military as an organization and the specific needs of military service members,” said 1st Lt Christopher Colin Wolper. “Dr. Bunn is an exceptional supervisor willing to make last-minute accommodations for individuals who may need to attend to familial or personal needs prior to work and/or leaving for military service. Dr. Bunn shows compassion and empathy for those willing to serve in all components of the military. Her contributions serve as a sterling example and are a credit to herself and Southwest Behavioral & Health Services. Dr. Bunn has the undying gratitude of the 2nd Battalion 378th Regiment Bravo Detachment.”

“I am happy to receive this award and to work at Southwest Behavioral & Health Services where I have the tools I need to support employees serving in our nation’s military,” said Dr. Wendy Bunn PsyD. “I was shocked, humbled, and truly honored to be recognized in this way. Our service men and women are the true warriors.”

Local leaders receive national honor

What does it take to run a successful restaurant? Several leaders in the local market know firsthand. In fact, in the Phoenix area, three local leaders have been honored with a national recognition.

Diamond Club status is one of the top honors at parent company Darden Restaurants. These winners were recognized for their commitment to delivering guest experiences at the highest level, while making a difference in the lives of guests and team members, as well as in the local community.

The local winners include:

• Deidra Becerra, General Manager of the Olive Garden in Mesa. This is her second time being awarded this honor.

• Tracy Burns, General Manager of the Olive Garden in Tempe.

• Jim Lloyd, General Manager of the Olive Garden in Goodyear. This is his second time being awarded this honor.