Biography of Scott Saffold

Dr Scott Saffold is a board-certified otolaryngologist and the founding medical director of Chesapeake Bay ENT, a well-regarded practice based in Southeastern Virginia. Since 2001, he has been instrumental in transforming a single-site office in a rural, medically underserved area into a respected, multi-location medical practice Through his vision and leadership, the practice has become renowned for delivering advanced, evidence-based care with a personal and compassionate approach His influence is seen across every aspect of the organization, from its clinical operations to the patient experience

A Commitment to Team and Service

From the beginning, his focus has been on people both the patients he serves and the team he leads Scott Saffold has prioritized building a strong, cohesive organization by investing in individuals who share his dedication to excellence This includes fostering a supportive workplace culture where team members are encouraged to grow, collaborate, and perform with professionalism and integrity Many employees have been with the organization for years, some for decades, due to the trust and empowerment they experience under his leadership.

He has also made it a point to elevate people from within the organization Numerous staff members have advanced from entry-level roles to leadership and clinical positions because of the opportunities and mentorship provided Whether supporting continuing education or nurturing clinical skills, he ensures that the people around him feel valued and capable of delivering exceptional care.

A Reputation of Excellence

His reputation as a leader is reflected in the quality of care Chesapeake Bay ENT delivers Rather than pursuing a high-volume, centralized model, he has championed the creation of smaller, community-focused locations that are tailored to local needs. These sites are intentionally designed to deliver personalized care in a setting that fosters strong patient relationships.

This approach allows providers to be accountable to the communities they serve By keeping clinics smaller and closer to home, the practice reduces barriers to care such as long travel times or impersonal, congested environments It also allows each location to align with specific patient populations and healthcare demands Dr Scott Saffold has continually emphasized that success is not just about outcomes but about how patients are treated with dignity, respect, and empathy

He has also prioritized seeing all patients, regardless of their insurance coverage or ability to pay This deep commitment to equitable care has earned him the trust of the community and reinforced his conviction that sustainable healthcare systems must always prioritize patient needs

Recognized As a Pioneer in the Use of APPs and AI

Long before it became widespread in private specialty practices, he began incorporating advanced practice providers into Chesapeake Bay ENT’s care delivery model. His system of collaboration between physicians and APPs has proven that safe, high-quality, and efficient specialty care can be achieved without sacrificing outcomes Through clearly defined roles, structured protocols, and continual training, the model ensures APPs are both effective and supported

His leadership in this area has helped remove bottlenecks in access to specialty services while preserving clinical excellence. The success of this integrated approach has demonstrated that innovation in staffing can elevate the entire healthcare experience for patients, providers, and administrators alike.

Dr Saffold has also led the way in introducing practical technologies that improve care and reduce burdens on both patients and staff. From AI-enabled documentation tools to in-office imaging and minor surgical procedures, these innovations help streamline workflows while enhancing accuracy and timeliness of treatment Technology, in his view, is not a replacement for the provider it is a tool to free up more time and attention for human connection.

Active in the Community and Academia

In addition to running a thriving medical practice, Scott Saffold is actively involved in healthcare governance He serves on the board of a local hospital system, bringing strategic insights that reflect his combined clinical and administrative experience. His voice helps shape policies aimed at expanding healthcare access and improving outcomes in rural and underserved areas

He is also a regular contributor to health-focused media and education He offers expert commentary in various forums and has shared insights into the future of ENT care, surgical innovations, and healthcare workforce development. His academic interests include topics such as tumor immunology, surgical reconstruction techniques, and the role of immunotherapy in cancer care

Since 2014, he has directed a sinus-focused center in Virginia Beach, reflecting his ongoing commitment to specialty expertise within otolaryngology. He is board-certified and maintains active involvement in professional organizations to stay at the forefront of advancements in his field

Education and Training

His educational background reflects a strong foundation in science and a passion for the medical field Dr Scott Saffold earned his undergraduate degree in Cell Biology from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1990 From there, he pursued medical training at a respected college of medicine in Nashville, graduating with honors and being inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society

His postgraduate training included a general surgery internship in Buffalo, followed by a dedicated research fellowship in tumor immunology at a major cancer center in Cleveland He completed his otolaryngology residency at an academic medical center in Portland, where he trained across multiple subspecialties, including facial plastic surgery, head and neck cancer, pediatric ENT, and endoscopic sinus surgery

Rather than narrowing his focus to a single niche, Dr Saffold chose to specialize in general otolaryngology, enabling him to treat a wide range of patient concerns. In support of increasing diversity in medicine, he also established a scholarship program for medical students from underrepresented backgrounds. To further enhance his capabilities as a healthcare leader, he later earned an MBA from a university in Norfolk, Virginia.

Awards

Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards and honors, including:

● Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society

● Watanabe Scholar Recognition

● Paul Alfred Johnson, MD Memorial Scholarship

● Boyd Medical Society Award

● Frazier Scholarship

● Departmental Honors in Anatomy

● Recognition from the Northern California Meharry Alumni Chapter

● Inclusion in Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities

● Medical Scholar Award

Personal Life

Outside of his professional life, he is a father to two children, a daughter and a son He stays involved in the local community through youth sports, including coaching football. His interests also include running, triathlon, and fitness, having completed multiple marathons and half-Ironman competitions He enjoys reading and continues to invest time in personal and professional development.

Scott Saffold remains a respected voice in medicine, an innovative leader in ENT care, and a dedicated advocate for both patients and providers. Through decades of service, his impact has been felt across his region and beyond, and his legacy continues to be shaped by integrity, compassion, and excellence.