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LEXINGTON VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM: OPERATIVE CARE Erik Ballert, MD, FACS
Dr. Erik Ballert, M.D., oversees the surgical staff as associate chief of staff for operative care at the Lexington VA Health Care System. He is also an associate professor of surgery at UK Hospital, where through VA’s robust affiliation with UK, he is shaping the next generation of top-notch surgeons. The Lexington VA Health Care System offers comprehensive surgical services including general surgery, urology, orthopedic surgery, vascular surgery, plastic surgery, ophthalmology, otolaryngology (ENT) surgery, neurosurgery, thoracic surgery, colorectal surgery, gynecology, oral surgery, and podiatric surgery. In addition, VA uses state-of-the-art technologies such as robotic technology, microsurgical techniques, laser surgery and stealth surgical navigation. Dr. Ballert has the additional privilege of serving as the network chief surgical consultant. He admits his responsibilities can be challenging to juggle, but his work never ceases to inspire him: “Each day I see someone doing something amazing for someone in a completely selfless way. It is amazing to see how much our employees care about our patients. It is an honor to help improve the healthcare we provide to our veteran population.” 859.233.4511 • va.gov/lexington
LEXINGTON VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM: MEDICINE SERVICE Mary Duke, MD
Dr. Mary Duke, M.D. first sums up the reason for her work at the VA Medical Center: “As the saying goes ‘All gave some. Some gave all.’” Serving veterans gives her motivation to go to work every day and make a difference. “They deserve the best health care we can give them.” Dr. Duke serves as Chief of Medicine Service, which encompasses several specialties, such as cardiology, gastroenterology, endocrinology, oncology and more. She works with talented people within the medicine division of the Lexington VA who are all highly trained and skilled within their respective fields. “As the population ages, the need for medical specialty services will continue to grow,” she adds. The physicians Dr. Duke oversees operate in both inpatient and outpatient capacities. Though tasked with providing such a broad scope of services, Dr. Duke respects both their wide-lens view of healthcare and their specialized knowledge. How does she balance her demanding career? “…with prayer, yoga and a sense of humor.” 859.233.4511 • va.gov/lexington
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July 2018 | TopsInLex.com
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