Dr. Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA, FACS is one of the most influential figures in American surgery today — not just for her surgical expertise, but for her groundbreaking leadership and commitment to improving patient care and physician training nationwide. As the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the American College of Surgeons (ACS), Dr. Turner stands at the forefront of surgical leadership in the United States.
A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in biology, Dr. Turner went on to earn her medical degree from Wake Forest School of Medicine. Her early career included research on neurobiology and anatomy during medical school and surgical residency training that cultivated both clinical skill and a deep curiosity about how medicine could be improved systemically.
Before transitioning into national leadership, Dr. Turner was actively involved in academic surgery, including serving as surgery residency program director at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and as a clinical professor at the University of Chicago Medicine. These roles honed her ability to mentor young surgeons and advocate for advancements in surgical education.
In January 2022, Dr. Turner shattered a significant glass ceiling by becoming the first African American and first woman appointed to lead the ACS. Her leadership has since shaped the direction of surgical practice, quality improvement programs, and surgeon training across the country. This historic appointment underscores not only her professional excellence but also her ability to inspire and drive change in institutions that influence care for millions of patients.
Dr. Turner’s influence extends beyond organizational leadership. In October 2025, she was elected to the National Academy of Medicine — one of the highest recognitions in the health and medical fields — celebrating her outstanding professional achievements and commitment to service.
Under her direction, the ACS continues to innovate surgical practice through programs designed to improve outcomes and support surgeons at all levels. Initiatives such as the ACS Leadership & Advocacy Summit foster collaboration across specialties, while quality improvement frameworks help hospitals and surgical teams implement evidence-based practices. Dr. Turner also champions efforts like Operation Giving Back, which mobilizes surgeons for global health outreach and volunteer service.
Dr. Turner’s leadership philosophy is rooted in inclusivity, mentorship, and relentless pursuit of excellence. She frequently emphasizes the importance of surgeon well-being, interdisciplinary collaboration, and data-driven quality improvements that elevate care for diverse patient populations. Her voice is regularly featured in national forums on surgical education and healthcare policy.
Whether she’s addressing resident education, advocating for meaningful patient safety measures, or engaging with policymakers to shape the future of surgical care, Dr. Turner’s impact reverberates across the healthcare landscape. Her story is one of not just surgical mastery, but visionary leadership — a model for future generations of physician leaders.
