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Article Category: Newsroom

Wellstar Physicians Named as “Top Doctors” in Atlanta Magazine’s 2021 List

Cardiologist Dr. Mindy Gentry featured on cover; Nearly 80 Wellstar physicians chosen by peers

Published on July 01, 2021

Last updated 10:05 AM July 01, 2021

Illustration of two physicians with Wellstar and Top Doctors logos

Wellstar Health System has announced that Atlanta magazine recognized 79 Wellstar physicians on its 2021 "Top Doctors" list in the July issue. This list is compiled annually from nominations by physicians whom they consider to be among the top experts in their region for their medical specialty. The number of Wellstar doctors named to the distinguished list increased 14% from 2020 to 2021.

"As a community-based, non-profit health system, Wellstar physicians are focused on providing high-quality patient-centered care to everyone who comes through our doors," said Dr. John Brennan, executive vice president and chief clinical integration officer of Wellstar Health System. "Wellstar is extremely proud of the doctors recognized by this prestigious list published annually by Atlanta magazine, as well as all of our team members, who are committed to delivering outstanding care to every person, every time."

Atlanta magazine's "Top Doctors" list is compiled by Castle Connolly Medical Ltd., a leading healthcare research and information company founded to help consumers reach America's top doctors and hospitals. Physicians are nominated by their peers and selected after a rigorous screening process that reviews professional, educational, and patient care excellence. The final list with detailed information about the doctors’ education, training, and medical expertise is included in Atlanta magazine's July 2021 issue. Below is the complete list of Wellstar physicians who were honored on the 2021 list.

Atlanta Magazine cover

1. John Vickery, Allergy & Immunology
2. Grace Chiang, Allergy & Immunology
3. Narendra Kanuru, Cardiac Electrophysiology
4. Jacob Blatt, Cardiac Electrophysiology
5. Anand Kenia, Cardiac Electrophysiology
6. Mohammad Kooshkabadi, Cardiac Electrophysiology
7. Bryan Piedad, Cardiac Electrophysiology
8. Michael Riley, Cardiac Electrophysiology
9. Ayushi Ahuja, Cardiovascular Disease
10. Bruce Alayof, Cardiovascular Disease
11. Mindy Gentry, Cardiovascular Disease
12. Barry Mangel, Cardiovascular Disease
13. Janice Warner, Dermatology
14. Jennifer Jones, Dermatology
15. George Dobo, Dermatology
16. Jodi Ganz, Dermatology
17. Michael Collins, Diagnostic Radiology
18. Jean Molinary, Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism
19. Israel Orija, Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism
20. Rolf Meinhold, Family Medicine
21. George Brown, Family Medicine
22. Thomas Gearhard, Family Medicine
23. Sachin Goel, Gastroenterology
24. Jeffrey Hines, Gynecologic Oncology
25. Mark McBride, Hand Surgery
26. Edward Holliger, Hand Surgery
27. Joel Isom, Internal Medicine
28. Ebon Bourne, Internal Medicine
29. Amber Driskell, Internal Medicine
30. Chukwuma Onyeije, Maternal & Fetal Medicine
31. Daniel Eller, Maternal & Fetal Medicine
32. Jay Cinnamon, Neuroradiology
33. Angela Hudson, Obstetrics & Gynecology
34. Carlos Alarcon, Obstetrics & Gynecology
35. Elizabeth Taghechian, Obstetrics & Gynecology
36. Mary Chappell, Obstetrics & Gynecology
37. Kimberly Huffman, Obstetrics & Gynecology
38. Terry Kelley, Obstetrics & Gynecology
39. Colleen Killian, Obstetrics & Gynecology
40. Natalie Needham, Obstetrics & Gynecology
41. Elizabeth Street, Obstetrics & Gynecology
42. Jerry Berland, Ophthalmology
43. Mark Berman, Ophthalmology
44. Monica Bratton, Ophthalmology
45. Charles Ho, Ophthalmology
46. Denise Johnson, Ophthalmology
47. Robert Titelman, Orthopedic Surgery
48. Erroll Bailey, Orthopedic Surgery
49. Stephanie Martin, Orthopedic Surgery
50. Tapan Daftari, Orthopedic Surgery
51. Robert Kelly, Orthopedic Surgery
52. Douglas Lundy, Orthopedic Surgery
53. Raymond Schettino, Otolaryngology
54. Roy Schottenfeld, Otolaryngology
55. David Parks, Otolaryngology
56. David Gale, Pain Medicine
57. Larry Clements, Pediatrics
58. Christian Williams, Pediatrics
59. Richard King, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
60. M Keith Hanna, Plastic Surgery
61. K. Keith Jeffords, Plastic Surgery
62. William Dowdell, Pulmonary Disease
63. Russell French, Pulmonary Disease
64. Jody Hughes, Pulmonary Disease
65. Eduardo Molinary, Pulmonary Disease
66. Keith Rott, Rheumatology
67. Kelly Weselman, Rheumatology
68. Chris Andersen, Surgery
69. Philip Ramsay, Surgery
70. Richard Myung, Thoracic & Cardiac Surgery
71. Theolyn Price, Thoracic & Cardiac Surgery
72. Kevin Windom, Urogynecology/Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery
73. Scott Miller, Urology
74. Murphy Townsend, Urology
75. Thomas Murphy, Vascular & Interventional Radiology
76. Alan Zuckerman, Vascular & Interventional Radiology
77. Arun Chervu, Vascular Surgery
78. Shariq Sayeed, Vascular Surgery
79. Steven Oweida, Vascular Surgery

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Healthcare self check-in kiosk

Newsroom

CLEAR and Wellstar Health System Modernize the Patient Experience Using CLEAR1’s Digital Check-In

NEW YORK and ATLANTA, Oct. 21, 2025 – CLEAR (NYSE: YOU), the secure identity company, and Wellstar Health System (“Wellstar”), are dramatically improving the patient experience and saving hundreds of staff hours through a partnership that leverages CLEAR’s identity platform, CLEAR1. Findings from a joint case study released today highlight how health systems nationwide can use technology to make the patient experience faster and easier by reimagining one of the most visible pain points in the care journey: Patient Check In.

Despite widespread investment in digital tools, many check-ins still depend on manual lookups, paper forms, and repetitive data entry—creating friction for both patients and staff. Wellstar has been at the forefront of innovation as the first health system to launch CLEAR1 for check-in, which is integrated with Epic Welcome to enable seamless deployment. With this industry-leading solution, patients can quickly and easily check in for their appointments with a quick selfie at a kiosk or on a handheld tablet.

Since the initial launch at Avalon Health Park in May 2024, Wellstar has seen a dramatic and measurable impact on both experience and operational efficiency, with plans to expand to more than 150 locations across its system. The integration is live at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center, the first hospital in the U.S. to leverage CLEAR1 for patient check-ins, and at five Wellstar outpatient facilities. Wellstar plans to roll out additional use cases with CLEAR1, including patient MyChart account creation and recovery, workforce account recovery, and online scheduling.

“CLEAR’s focus is on making everyday experiences both safer and easier, and our work with Wellstar is helping pave the way for the future of modern patient experiences," said Caryn Seidman Becker, CEO of CLEAR. “We are excited about the growth opportunities ahead and the many ways we can support health systems to improve patient and staff experiences and create a more integrated healthcare future.”

“The results of the study speak for themselves. By leveraging CLEAR1’s technology we introduced a modern, digital check-in experience that saves patients and team members time, reduces administrative costs, and streamlines the check-in process for everyone,” said Dr. Hank Capps, EVP and Chief Information and Digital Officer for Wellstar Health System and President of Catalyst by Wellstar. “Wellstar partnered with CLEAR because we are ommitted to investing in technologies that elevate the patient experience, alleviate the stress on staff, and reduce friction across every part of the patient journey.”

Key outcomes achieved since launching CLEAR1 for check-in include:

  • Improved Patient Experience – Digital check-in adoption increased from 2 to 10 percent, with strong engagement among patients 45 and older. 73 percent of patients who used CLEAR1’s digital check-in technology reported that they would use it again.
  • Operational Efficiency – In just six months, CLEAR1-enabled check-ins freed up more than 1,500 hours of staff time, allowing teams to focus on higher-value tasks such as assisting patients with complex problems.
  • Reduction in Duplicate Records & Cost Savings – By linking appointments to a verified identity, Wellstar has been able to uncover and resolve duplicate patient records before visits, reducing costly administrative rework and minimizing claim complications. Collectively, these improvements are projected to deliver $2 million in savings for every 25,000 patients verified through CLEAR1.

The case study is available here.

About CLEAR
CLEAR's mission is to strengthen security and create frictionless experiences. With over 33 million Members and a growing network of partners across the world, CLEAR's secure identity platform is transforming the way people live, work, and travel. Whether you are traveling, at the stadium, or on your phone, CLEAR connects you to the things that make you, you—making everyday experiences easier, more secure, and friction-free. CLEAR is committed to privacy done right. Members are always in control of their own information, and we do not sell biometric or sensitive personal data. For more information, visit clearme.com.

About Wellstar Health System
Wellstar personalizes the patient experience. We call it PeopleCare and it's only possible thanks to our 33,000 team members who provide expert compassionate care for every stage of life. PeopleCare also means we serve our communities as a non-profit health system, providing more than $1 billion annually in charity care and community programs, and operating the largest integrated trauma network in the State of Georgia. We embrace innovation and technology, nurture early-stage companies through our venture firm Catalyst by Wellstar, and train future generations of caregivers with academic institutions including the Medical College of Georgia. Wellstar honors every voice and is one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For. To learn more, visit Wellstar.org.

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Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia dedicates new lobby to pioneering Pediatric Surgeon Dr. Charles Howell

Newsroom

Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia dedicates new lobby to pioneering Pediatric Surgeon Dr. Charles Howell

AUGUSTA, Ga. (Oct. 13, 2025) – Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia officially cut the ribbon on its updated lobby Monday with a ceremony attended by donors, dignitaries from Wellstar, Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center, Augusta University and the city of Augusta.

There was also a very special guest in attendance, Dr. Charles Howell, who throughout his career has been one of Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia’s biggest advocates. From the stage, he watched, visibly touched, as a giant purple curtain fell, revealing the words “Dr. Charles G. Howell Jr Lobby” stretching across the lobby wall, greeting guests as they enter.

“I’m a little embarrassed,” Dr. Howell said as he took the podium.

He went on to say that many times over the years, patient families told him they didn’t know where to go for care, and now any patient who walks through the door of Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia will find physicians who are board-certified in many specialties.

“You get the best care without saying anything, and for that I am very proud,” he said.

The moment had been kept top-secret, even from many event organizers. Planners knew they were organizing a special recognition, but the identity and exact nature of the surprise was revealed to leaders on a need-to-know basis to avoid spoiling the surprise. Leaders who knew, agreed that this was just as it should be. After all, Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia would not exist without Dr. Howell’s steadfast advocacy.

There’s a well-known story that Dr. Howell offhandedly mentioned the need for a children’s hospital to a patient’s father—a spark that would lead to securing the necessary funding only a few years later. Dr. Howell did not know the comment was made to the chief aide to Rep. Tom Murphy, then Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives. Ten years later, the children’s hospital was a reality.

Dr. Howell was also instrumental in designing the hospital, involving children and families in the process to ensure their needs were met. Children’s Medical Center, now Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia, opened in 1998 and expanded pediatric inpatient capacity from 32 to 154 beds. Dr. Howell is one of Georgia’s greatest advocates for children’s healthcare.

As part of the celebration, Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson read a proclamation declaring Oct. 13 “Dr. Charles Howell Day,” and presented him with a plaque.

Wellstar MCG Health President Ralph Turner also thanked Dr. Howell for his dedication and service to Georgia’s children.

“When someone dedicates their lives to taking care of our children and only makes one profound statement that grows into an entire facility—and he dedicates 40 years of his life taking care of children—this, today, just feels right,” Turner said.

As a pediatric surgeon, Dr. Howell has performed more than 16,000 procedures. He graduated from Medical College of Georgia in 1973 and, following a pediatric surgery residency at a children’s hospital in Philadelphia, returned to Augusta to practice.

In addition to operating on nearly 400 children each year, Dr. Howell started a pediatric ECMO program and a pediatric trauma program. He also served as capital campaign co-chair to assist in bringing Ronald McDonald House to its current location—only steps from Wellstar Children's Hospital of Georgia.

In 2018, following his 40-year surgical career, Dr. Howell retired as surgeon-in-chief of the children's hospital and chief of the department of surgery for Wellstar MCG Health. He returned to the health system in 2019 as the head of the hospital’s physician practice group.

The lobby of Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia was the first large renovation project at the children’s hospital since it was built in 1998. The renovation includes new flooring, removal of an old fountain and updated furniture. A donor wall has also been installed to recognize the generous donors who help the hospital fulfill its mission of providing patient- and family-centered care for every family who seeks care at Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia.

Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia dedicates new lobby to pioneering Pediatric Surgeon Dr. Charles Howell
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A woman holds a pink breast cancer awareness ribbon in her fingers

Highlights

Think PINK: Raise Your Breast Cancer IQ

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 316,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S. this year. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, apart from skin cancer, and second only to lung cancer as a leading cause of cancer death in women.

It’s important for women to know the symptoms and schedule regular screenings to detect breast cancer early. Remember PINK—Prevention, Information, Next steps and Knowledge—to guide your awareness.

P: Prevention

The best way to detect breast cancer early is by staying connected with your healthcare provider and keeping up with regular visits and screenings, including mammograms.

Who should get screened, and when?

Annual mammograms are recommended starting at age 40. Women with additional risk factors or a family history should speak with their provider about starting screenings earlier.

I: Information

Research and learn as much as you can about breast cancer. Knowing the signs and symptoms could save your life.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

Some symptoms may be spotted early. Knowing what to look and feel for can help catch breast cancer before it progresses:

  • Lump in the breast or underarm
  • Breast swelling or thickening
  • Redness or flaking skin on the breast
  • Nipple discharge other than breast milk
  • Change in breast size or shape
  • Pain in any area of the breast

N: Next steps

When a mammogram result is flagged for follow-up care, it can feel scary. At Wellstar, you don’t have to face the process alone. Our Comprehensive Breast Health Program offers complimentary concierge services, automatically enrolling patients with abnormal mammogram results. Dedicated nurse navigators guide you through each step of the diagnostic process—helping with scheduling, answering questions and supporting your physical and emotional well-being.

If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, it’s important to partner with your care team to plan your treatment.

What happens after a breast cancer diagnosis?

  • Schedule a follow-up visit. Meet with your healthcare provider to ask questions about your diagnosis and treatment options.
  • Consult with specialists. At Wellstar, breast surgeons and oncologists work as part of an integrated team to recommend treatment tailored to your condition. Patients also have access to advanced imaging, leading facilities and experts in surgery, radiology, pathology and oncology.
  • Explore STAT Clinic. At the Breast Cancer STAT Clinic at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center, a full team—including a breast surgeon, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, genetic counselor and nurse navigator—meets with you in one place on the same day. Together, they create a personalized treatment plan before you leave, helping reduce the time from diagnosis to treatment from months to just two weeks. This patient-centered model brings the specialists to you, ensuring the most seamless, supportive experience possible.

K: Knowledge

Knowing your personal health, family history and risk factors helps your care team determine if you may be at increased risk of developing breast cancer.

For women ages 24 to 39, Wellstar has partnered with Gabbi to offer a personalized, virtual breast cancer risk assessment. The program provides next-day virtual visits with specialists, coordinated imaging at Wellstar and 24/7 concierge support.

What are the risk factors for breast cancer?

  • Age. Risk increases as women get older.
  • Family history. Having a relative with breast cancer—or a male relative with prostate cancer—can increase risk.
  • Previous radiation therapy. Radiation to the chest for other cancers or lymphomas may increase risk.
  • Past diagnosis. A previous breast cancer diagnosis raises the likelihood of recurrence.

Wellstar provides comprehensive breast diagnostic and treatment options, along with support services to help patients and families navigate their journey.

For more information, visit wellstar.org/breastcancer.

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