Identifying the 100 Best Doctors in Arizona for 2026 is vital — it spotlights medical excellence, boosts public trust, helps patients find top care, encourages healthy competition and elevates standards across the state’s healthcare system. Here are Az Business magazine’s 100 best doctors in Arizona for 2026. Please note that this list — while compiled in collaboration with industry experts — is for informational purposes only and is not an endorsement of any of the physicians profiled in this editorial feature.
LOCAL NEWS: The 20 biggest employers in Arizona
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS: Want more news like this? Get our free newsletter here
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.
Nazila Adib, MD, Denova Collaborative Health: Board‑certified psychiatrist with expertise in addiction, mental health therapy, psychopharmacology, LGBTQ+ care and integrated behavioral health.
Ashley Albert, MD, Arizona Center for Cancer Care: Radiation oncology, with expertise in IMRT and IGRT.
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.
Kristopher Alpers, DDS
Owner // Alpers Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
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’s 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.
Pivotal moment: “A 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 — how I lead my team, how I care for patients and why I coach other dentists. I’ve seen firsthand how one mentor can change the trajectory of someone’s life. Now, it’s my mission to do the same — for patients, for my team and for future healthcare leaders.”
Source of pride: “While I’m proud of being named one of Arizona’s Best Doctors, what brings me the greatest pride is the ripple effect of mentorship. Coaching other dentists, whether through The Pathway’s 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’s not just about building a practice; it’s about elevating care for entire communities.”
Trends to watch in healthcare: “I 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’re 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.”
Learn more: alpersdentistry.com
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.
Wazhma Aslamy, MD, HonorHealth: Cardiologist specializing in cardiovascular disease, with expertise in general cardiology, echocardiography, valvular heart disease, congestive heart failure and preventive cardiology.
Samina Ayub, MD, Dignity Health Medical Group-Ahwatukee: Family medicine with a focus on family and sports medicine in Ahwatukee.
Anthony A. Admire, MD
Owner, AdmireMD Plastic Surgery + Skin Clinic
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 – Phoenix, reflecting his ongoing commitment to education, excellence and the community he serves.
Learn more: admireplasticsurgery.com
Faisal A. Bahadur, MD, Chandler Regional Medical Center: Interventional cardiology, general cardiology, vascular and nuclear cardiology.
Marwan M. Bahu, MD, Abrazo Arrowhead Campus: Cardiac electrophysiology/ electrophysiology (heart rhythm disorders).
Kathryn L. Bates, DO, Carondelet St. Joseph’s Hospital: Cardiologist (internal dedicine, echocardiography, nuclear cardiology).
Rajesh Bhakta, MD, Optum – Arizona: Internal medicine.
Robert Cercek, MD, The CORE Institute: Orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee care, joint replacement (primary and revision), fractures and trauma.
Michael Choti, MD, Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center: Surgical oncology, especially gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery.
Tania Cortas, MD
City of Hope Phoenix
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’s unique needs, offering expert, compassionate care through every stage of their cancer journey.
Learn more: cityofhope.org
Judd E. Cummings, MD, HonorHealth Orthopedics: Hip, knee, shoulder orthopedic surgery and orthopedic oncology
John Davitt, MD
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.
Trends to watch: “We will need to evaluate the tremendous impact on our country’s 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.”
Source of pride: “Being able to take the time to listen to my patients, validate their experiences and offer options that fit their needs best.”
Learn more: azgyn.com
Cameron Dick, MD, Banner Lung and Sleep Institute: Pulmonology, critical care medicine and sleep medicine.
Kenith Fang, MD, Phoenix Cardiac Surgery: Cardiothoracic surgery, including transcatheter valve therapies (TAVR).
Kevin Foster, MD
Diane & Bruce Halle Arizona Burn Center at Valleywise Health
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’s degree in business administration.
Source of pride: “I am most proud of developing an outstanding team of clinicians, researchers and educators who are dedicated to patient care.”
Learn more: valleywisehealth.org/burn
Tyler Francis, DMD, Francis Dental AZ: General and cosmetic dentistry (oral health, implants, veneers, preventive care).
Brandon E. Gough, MD, Gough Surgical: General surgery.
Erica Grabinski, DO, Optum Arizona: Primary care provider, practicing in internal medicine.
Jerome J. Grove, MD, Pain Consultants Of Arizona: Pain medicine and anesthesiology with emphasis on acute and chronic pain treatments.
Shabnam Gupta, MD
Surgeon, Arizona Gynecology Consultants
Background: Dr. Gupta completed advanced minimally invasive surgical training at Harvard. She specializes in treating complex benign gynecologic conditions — including fibroids, endometriosis and abnormal bleeding — 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’s 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.
Pivotal moment:“My grandfather, a physician who trained in post-partition India and worked in the U.K.’s 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’s 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.”
Learn more: azgyn.com
Lourdes M. Guerrero-Tiro, MD, District Medical Group: Pediatric cardiology.
Helen Hall, MD, Banner Health Center Plus: Colon and rectal surgery
Matthew L. Hansen, MD, OrthoArizona: Orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal specialist.
Kristi L. Harold, MD, Mayo Clinic: Bariatric surgery, hernia repair and laparoscopic surgery.
Jason S. Hauptman, MD, PhD, Phoenix Children’s: Nationally and internationally recognized expert in the use of robotic stereo-electroencephalography (sEEG), awake surgery in children.
James J. Hines, MD, Arizona Cardiology Group: Cardiology — specializing in heart disease, interventional or general cardiology.
Emily Ho, MD
Ironwood Cancer & Research Women’s Centers
Background: Dr. Ho began her journey to medicine through engineering. She obtained her bachelor’s degree at the California Institute of Technology and a master’s 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.
Pivotal moment: “A 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 — and one I could pass on. I began mentoring others, emphasizing empathy and clarity in patient interactions. Seeing those I’ve guided grow into confident, caring providers has been deeply rewarding.”
Learn more: ironwoodcrc.com
Vincent J. Honan, MD, Arizona Digestive Health: Gastroenterology, specializing in digestive disease, internal medicine.
Todd Hobgood, MD, Hobgood Facial Plastic Surgery: Facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, esthetic facial procedures.
Saurabh Jauhari, MD, Healing Horizons Psychiatry: Adult psychiatry an mental health.
Sunny Jhamnani, MD, Tri-City Cardiology: Cardiology and cardiovascular medicine.
Seth M. Kaufman, MD, Scottsdale Neurology: Neurology (including vascular neurology and neuromuscular medicine).
Kiranjit Khalsa, MD, Premier Allergy Asthma & Immunology: Allergy, asthma and immunology.
Max C. Kim, MD, Arizona Glaucoma Specialists: Ophthalmology with subspecialty in glaucoma.
Sujith Kalmadi, MD
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.
Pivotal moment: “My 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 — first reluctantly, but then with purpose — 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.”
Learn more: ironwoodcrc.com/
Gary Knighton, MD, Arizona Medical Weight Loss: Obesity medicine and medical weight loss.
Lavanya Kodali, MD, Mayo Clinic: Transplant nephrology and kidney and pancreas transplant specialist.
Todd M. Kravetz, MD, Wickenburg Community Hospital Clinic: Family medicine physician.
Kelly Krohn, MD, The CORE Institute: Orthopedic surgeon (musculoskeletal and orthopedic procedures).
Karan Lal, DO, Affiliated Dermatology North Scottsdale: Dermatology (skin, hair, cosmetic, medical dermatology).
Kristin K. Lau, MD, Desert Ridge Family Physicians: Family medicine and primary care.
Michael T. Lawton, MD
Barrow Neurological Institute: Dr. Lawton’s 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 brain aneurysms, 1,300 arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), 1,400 cavernous 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.
Learn more: barrowneuro.org
Mark J. Leber, MD, Arizona Hand & Wrist: Orthopedic surgery with subspecialty in hand, wrist and upper extremity surgery.
Ben Leff, MD, Advanced Ear Nose & Throat:Otolaryngology and ENT (ears, nose, throat, head and neck).
Steven Lester, MD, Discovery Oasis: Cardiology and cardiovascular medicine, including imaging and advanced cardiac care.
Todd D. Levine, MD, Phoenix Neurological Associates: Neurology (nervous system, brain, spinal cord).
Shayna Mansfield, DO, Manzanita Medical: Osteopathic family medicine and primary care (general practice).
Carlos Mata, MD, Natural Results Plastic Surgery: Plastic surgery, aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.
Diane K. Matsumoto, MD, TLC Pediatrics: Pediatrics (general pediatric care).
Michael McBride, DO, Saguaro Dermatology: Cosmetic procedures and complex medical dermatology.
James Nachbar, MD
Scottsdale Plastic Surgery
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.
Learn more: plastic.org
Michael McKernan, MD, The CORE Institute: Orthopedic surgery, specializing in hand and upper extremity surgery.
Michael E. Manning, MD, Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates: Allergy and immunologic disorders.
Frederick Marciano, MD, Barrow Brain and Spine: Neurosurgery, brain and spine surgery.
Thomas A. Mattioni, MD, Arizona Arrhythmia Consultants: Cardiac electrophysiology, arrhythmia, heart rhythm specialty.
Drew V. Moffitt, MD, Arizona Reproductive Medicine: Reproductive endocrinology, fertility, assisted reproductive medicine.
Ana Moran, MD, Arizona Pulmonary Specialists: Pulmonology, lung and respiratory medicine.
Tiffany Nelson, MD, Desert Ridge Family Physicians: Family medicine and primary care.
Macelle Neuwirth, MD, Children’s Medical Group: Pediatrics or pediatric medicine.
Irina Nistor, MD, Southwest Diagnostic Imaging: Radiology and diagnostic imaging
Samir P. Patel, DO, Arizona Pain Care Center: Pain management and pain medicine
Paul M. Petelin Jr., MD, Scottsdale Center For Sight: Ophthalmology, specializing in refractive surgery, LASIK, cornea and vision correction.
Francisco Ponce, MD
Barrow Neurological Institute
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’s expertise includes deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery for Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor and dystonia, as well as focused ultrasound for essential tremor and tremor-dominant Parkinson’s. He is also active in the operative management of cranial and spinal trauma.
Learn more: barrowneuro.org
James L. Plotnik, MD, Arizona Pediatric Eye Specialists: Pediatric ophthalmology, eye specialist for children.
Alyx B. Porter, MD, Mayo Clinic Hospital: Professor of Neurology with a subspecialty certification in neuro-oncology.
Randall W. Porter, MD
Barrow Brain and Spine and Barrow Neurological Institute
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’s 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 Journal Skull Base Surgery and has been invited to review numerous articles for the scientific literature.
Learn more: barrowneuro.org
Alessandra Puggioni, MD, Scottsdale Vascular Services: Vascular surgery, vein and venous disease specialist, including minimally invasive endovascular techniques and lymphedema care.
Priya Radhakrishnan, MD, HonorHealth: Primary care physician.
Venkatesh G. Ramaiah, MD, HonorHealth: Vascular surgery.
Eric M. Reuss, MD, Scottsdale Obstetrics: Obstetrics and gynecology.
Mitchell J. Ross, MD, Arizona Cardiology Group: Cardiology.
William S. Robertson, MD, Scottsdale Cardiovascular Center: Cardiology and vascular medicine.
Mark J. Rubin, MD, Pain Consultants Of Arizona: Pain medicine and interventional pain management.
Jonathan D. Ruzi, MD, Arizona Pulmonary Specialists: Pulmonology and respiratory medicine.
Michael Saavedra, MD, Phoenix Allergy & Asthma: Allergy and immunology; asthma and allergist.
Marwan Sabbagh, MD
Barrow Neurological Institute
Background: Dr. Sabbagh is a behavioral neurologist and the Moreno Family Chair for Alzheimer’s Research in the Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders Program at Barrow Neurological Institute. He is also a professor and the Vice Chair of Research in the Institute’s Department of Neurology. He is board certified in neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Sabbagh’s expertise includes the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Neurology.
Learn more: barrowneuro.org
Nima Salari, MD, Desert Institute for Spine Care: Spine surgery and orthopedic spine or neurosurgery with spine focus.
Nader Sanai, MD
Ivy Brain Tumor Center
Background: Dr. Sanai is the Francis & Dionne Najafi Chair in Neurosurgical Oncology at Barrow Neurological Institute. An internationally acclaimed neurosurgeon and one of the nation’s highest-volume brain tumor surgeons, 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.
Learn more: barrowneuro.org
Craig Saran, DO, Arizona Pain Doctors: Pain medicine and osteopathic pain management.
Mark J. Seifert, MD, Honorhealth Medical Group: Clinical cardiac electrophysiology.
Lawrence W. Shaw, MD, Shaw Center: Cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.
Jeremy M. Shefner, MD, PhD
Barrow Neurological Institute
Background: Dr. Shefner is a neurologist in the Gregory W. Fulton ALS & Neuromuscular Disease Center and professor in the Department of Neurology at 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’s research focuses on biomarker development and the clinical therapeutics of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal muscular atrophy.
Learn more: barrowneuro.org
John Shufeldt, MD, Xcellerant Ventures: Dr. Shufeldt made a $100 million donation to the ASU school of medicine and is fueling Phoenix’s bio-tech boom with early-stage investments in high-tech startups via Xcellerant Ventures.
Suzanne Sorof, MD, Dignity Health: Interventional cardiology.
Susan C. Sorosky, MD, Desert Spine and Sports Physicians: Physical medicine and rehabilitation, specializing in musculoskeletal rehabilitation.
Karen S. Stark, MD, Scottsdale Heart Group: Cardiology.
Danielle Stearns, DO, Cardiovascular Institute of Scottsdale: Cardiology, including echocardiography and nuclear cardiology.
Anna Svatikova, MD, Mayo Clinic: Cardiology.
Irene K. Taw, MD, Arizona Oncology Associates: Radiation oncology.
Ann Thomas, MD, Arizona Kidney Disease: Nephrology.
Lori H. Travis, MD, Phoenix Neurological Associates: Neurology (with work in neuroimmunology/multiple sclerosis).
Jay Turner, MD, PhD
Barrow Neurological Institute
Background: Dr. Turner joined Barrow Neurological Institute at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s 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.
Learn more: barrowneuro.org
Samuel Unzek Freiman, MD, Astra Healthcare: Double-board certified in cardiology and internal medicine.
Juan Uribe, MD
Barrow Neurological Institute
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’s expertise includes the surgical treatment of scoliosis, spinal trauma, herniated thoracic disc and spinal tumors, particularly with minimally invasive spine surgery.
Learn more: barrowneuro.org
Allan M. Wachter, MD, Ahwatukee Foothills Allergy: Treats asthma, nasal allergy, hives, food allergies and related immunologic conditions.
Tom Waliser, MD
Owner, Arizona Gynecology Consultants
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.
Trend to watch: “I 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.”
Source of pride: “I 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.”
Learn more: azgyn.com
Thomas J. Wall, MD, Athletic Institute Of Medicine: Board-certified orthopedic surgeon with specialization in sports medicine.
Maegen J. Wallace, MD, Phoenix Children’s: Pediatric orthopaedic surgery.
Molly F. Walsh, DO , Niagara Plastics: Cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the breast, body, face and aesthetics.
Mark Wang, MD, Desert Institute for Spine Care: Spinal care.
Michael White, MD
Executive vice president, chief clinical officer, Valleywise Health
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’s partners at District Medical Group and the Creighton University Arizona Health Education Alliance.
Pivotal moment: “The 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 — it’s about service, vision and the courage to challenge the status quo.”
Trends to watch in healthcare: “In 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.”
Learn more: valleywisehealth.org
Michael W. Wolff, MD
Southwest Spine & Sports
Background: Regenerative medicine and biologics are the future. They can repair, promote healing and restore function. Dr. Wolff has dedicated his medical career to returning his patients to activities they love using non-surgical solutions. By treating the root cause of pain and not just the symptoms he helps achieve optimal functional health. Dr. Wolff leads the Southwest as the first Master Instructor for Discseel® — a patented, minimally-invasive procedure that seals and heals spinal disc tears with an injectable biologic. With more than 29 years safely performing thousands of intradiscal procedures, he helps his patients with low back pain avoid surgery.
Learn more: swspineandsports.com
Tonia Young-Fadok, MD, Mayo Clinic: Colorectal surgery (colon and rectal disease, minimally invasive surgery)
Michael Zawaneh, MD, Banner Health Center: Cardiology, electrophysiology (structural heart disease, arrhythmia disorders).
