As a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Michael Daubs specializes in treating adult and pediatric spinal disorders, but outside of the operating room, you’re likely to find him in a classroom. Thirty years ago, he set a career goal to return to his hometown of Las Vegas and start an orthopaedic program—and he has.
Dr. Daubs founded the first orthopaedic surgery residency training program in Nevada, which he calls the highlight of his career. He built a comprehensive orthopaedic department consisting of well-trained surgeons with hopes of recruiting and training the next generation of orthopaedic surgeons right here in Southern Nevada—so our community can receive high-quality care. The first class of four fully trained, board-eligible orthopaedic surgeons will graduate from UNLV School of Medicine in June.
As a dedicated surgeon and educator, Dr. Daubs believes we are only as healthy as the least healthy in our city. Through teaching and mentoring the next generation of surgeons, Dr. Daubs wants to set the standard for quality of care, while gaining the community’s trust through respectful and compassionate care, leadership, research, transparency and continued improvement. He is leading the charge by creating an educational foundation for medical students and working to increase the number of doctors in Las Vegas.
Dr. Daubs has published over 100 scientific journal articles and medical textbook chapters related to the treatment of the spine. He is active in several national and international academic teaching and research organizations, including the Cervical Spine Research Society, Scoliosis Research Society, Lumbar Research Society, North American Spine Society and the American Orthopaedic Association. He was recently named director-elect of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, serves as a board member of the Kenny Guinn Center for Policy and as chair of AO Spine North America.
Education Runner-up
Joshua J. Goldman, MD Assistant Professor of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, UNLV School of Medicine