Several Baptist Health Paducah surgeons achieved Master Surgeon accreditation in Robotic Surgery

PADUCAH, KY (May 15, 2025) – Six surgeons with Baptist Health Paducah recently achieved accreditation from the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) in robotic surgery. This accreditation recognizes the commitment and high standard of delivery of quality patient care and safety.

Surgeons recognized include Anthony Davis, MD, bariatric and general surgery; Kristen Williams, MD, general surgery; John Hahn, MD, general surgery; Michael Knox, MD, urology; S. Blair Tolar, MD, OB/GYN; and Amber Savells, MD, OB/GYN, have achieved the distinction of Master Surgeon in Robotic Surgery.

Status of an accredited master surgeon means that the surgeon has met internationally recognized standards.  Not all hospitals and surgeons seek accreditation; not all that undergo the rigorous inspection process are granted accreditation.

“The Master Surgeon in Robotic Surgery distinction is a voluntary program that demonstrates the commitment of the individual surgeon to providing best in class care,” said Brad Housman, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Baptist Health Paducah. “Based on the surgeon’s lifelong experience and the facilities commitment to safe and effective evidenced based care, the Master Surgeon designation should reassure the patient that they are receiving the best care possible with surgeons who have proven experience throughout their career.”

Dr. Housman added that the large number of Master Surgeons on staff sets us apart from other facilities and should be a reminder to the region that Baptist Health Paducah has been providing outstanding robotic surgery for over a decade and a half.

“Baptist Health Paducah remains committed to providing advanced robotic surgical care to the people of western Kentucky,” said Dr. Housman.

Health care facilities and surgeons seeking an SRC accreditation undergo an extensive assessment and inspection process to ensure the applicant meets SRC’s proven standards and requirements. These requirements include surgical volumes, facility equipment, clinical pathways and standardized operating procedures, an emphasis on patient education and continuous quality assessment. Inspectors educate staff in the accredited departments on best practices to help an organization improve its care and services.

“We’re proud to recognize these six exemplary surgeons at Baptist Health Paducah for their commitment to advancing and providing quality care for all patients,” said Gary M. Pratt, CEO of SRC. “This accreditation signals that these surgeons are among the best in their specialty, and they are dedicated to delivering the highest level of care possible.”

To find a surgeon, visit baptisthealth.com/Paducah.