Healthcare Heroes

For nearly 20 years Nevada Business Magazine has been recognizing Healthcare Heroes in the Silver State.The program began as a way to recognize individuals in this important industry for their efforts and contributions. Each of the honorees on the following pages has had a tremendous impact on Nevada’s communities and are working to improve quality and access to care for all.

Educator

This person has been involved in teaching the future generation of healthcare professionals. They have demonstrated an ability to be a successful educator and are admired by his/her peers and students.

Dr. Annabel Barber
Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV, and UNLV Health

Sometimes the best teachers are those practicing in the field. That is certainly the case for Dr. Annabel Barber, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and professor of surgery with the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV. She has practiced in Las Vegas for over 27 years and served in leadership roles at several hospitals throughout the valley. In her role at the school, she is chief of the division of endocrine and gastrointestinal surgery and well-respected by her students and peers. In addition to teaching future surgeons, she trains resident physicians in surgical techniques, including the use of robotics, and is one of the only surgeons in southern Nevada to treat gastoparesis, a disorder that slows or stops the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine.

A sought-after speaker, Barber is also active in the community and works with underserved communities helping with access to care they may not have otherwise. With a Texas accent and ready smile, Barber’s warmth and caring support are the first thing someone may notice about her, followed closely by her keen mind and sharp medical skills.