USA Health welcomes cardiothoracic surgeon

By Carol McPhail
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USA Health has expanded its surgical care by welcoming William Ricks, M.D., a fellowship-trained cardiothoracic surgeon who will surgically treat diseases of the heart, blood vessels, lungs and chest.

A graduate of the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama, Ricks completed a residency in general surgery at USA Health and a fellowship in cardiothoracic surgery at the University of Florida in Gainesville. He will see patients at USA Health University Hospital and USA Health Providence Hospital.

Ricks said he was drawn to medicine and cardiothoracic surgery for multiple reasons. “Cardiothoracic surgery is both technically challenging and deeply rewarding, with the ability to truly change lives,” he said. “I’m drawn to helping patients and their families navigate complex surgeries with care and compassion.”

As part of the region’s only academic health system, Ricks will also hold the title of assistant professor of surgery at the Whiddon College of Medicine. “Academic medicine provides a strong community of colleagues and the chance to help train the next generation of physicians — something I find very meaningful,” he said.

Ricks said returning to USA Health and Mobile feels a bit like coming home. “USA Health played an important role in my training, and I’m grateful for the chance to give back and be part of this team again,” he said.

He is one of five surgeons who recently returned to Mobile, where they completed their surgery residencies and where four of the five new surgeons graduated from medical school.

During medical school, Ricks served as southern regional chair of the Association of American Medical Colleges’ Organization of Student Representatives. He was also a member of the Curriculum Committee and the Student Promotions and Evaluation Committee at the Whiddon College of Medicine. He received the Pro-Assurance Outstanding Patient Communication Award and was a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society.

He also participated in medical mission trips to Rwanda and Honduras with the Christian Medical Ministry of South Alabama for which he served as vice president.

During residency, Ricks was the recipient of the Roy Edward Gandy Passion for Learning and Teaching Award, the Charles B. Rodning Par Excellence Surgical Chief Award, and the Thomas Robert Johnson Memorial Award. In addition, he was named Best Resident in Pediatric Surgery. He also served a year as administrative chief resident for the Department of Surgery.

Ricks is an author of several scientific journal articles and has presented research and cases at regional and national conferences.

He is married with three children, and enjoys running, hunting and woodworking.

Ricks will see patients at USA Health Cardiovascular Surgery, 6701 Airport Blvd., B123, in west Mobile. To make an appointment, call 251-300-5140.