USA Health welcomes surgeon with focus on minimally invasive, upper GI surgery

By Carol McPhail
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USA Health has expanded its surgical services with the addition of Mark A. Ward Jr., M.D., a board-certified general surgeon with a special focus on minimally invasive and upper GI surgery.

Primarily based at USA Health Providence Hospital, Ward will perform procedures such as gallbladder removal, appendectomies, and abdominal wall/inguinal hernia repairs. In addition, he will offer advanced care in minimally invasive and foregut surgery, including anti-reflux procedures, hiatal hernia repairs, bariatric surgeries, endoscopy, and other laparoscopic and robotic minimally invasive techniques aimed at improving the quality of life for patients with chronic gastrointestinal conditions.

“I’ve always felt a strong calling to help others, which initially drew me to medicine as a vocation,” Ward said. “During my training, I was drawn to the hands-on nature and immediate impact of surgery. There’s something incredibly rewarding about being able to intervene and witness tangible, often life-changing results for patients.”

Ward, a native of Biloxi, Mississippi, earned a medical degree from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson and completed a residency in general surgery at USA Health. He went on to complete an advanced GI minimally invasive surgery and bariatric fellowship at AdventHealth Tampa Bariatric and Metabolic Institute in Tampa.

“I pursued fellowship training in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery after seeing the profound effects these procedures can have — not just in resolving conditions like reflux or obesity but completely changing the trajectory of a patient’s life,” he said. “Helping someone regain their health and confidence is one of the most fulfilling parts of my work.”

Returning to USA Health feels like home, Ward said, in part because his wife was raised in Mobile. He is also one of five surgeons who recently returned to USA Health, where they completed their surgery residency and, in some cases, also graduated from medical school. “Reconnecting with former attendings and co-residents has been both fun and fulfilling,” said Ward, who holds the academic title of assistant professor of surgery at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine. “I hope to pass along the same mentorship and guidance that I received from my own attendings.”

Ward’s research interests are focused on bariatric and foregut surgery, particularly outcomes related to minimally invasive techniques and long-term quality-of-life improvements for patients undergoing the procedures.

“I tell all my patients that my No. 1 priority is their safety, and I will always be honest and transparent with them,” he said. “I believe strongly that our patients are more than their diagnoses; they are people with stories, goals and families. Building relationships with them and earning their trust is one of the greatest privileges of this profession.”

Outside of medicine, Ward enjoys spending time with his wife, Andie; cooking; cheering on the New Orleans Saints; and taking advantage of the vibrant culture, cuisine and arts of his longtime home, the Gulf Coast.

Ward will see patients at Providence Surgical Services, 6701 Airport Blvd., Suite B208, in Mobile. To make an appointment, call 251-266-3544.