Surgeon has a heart for home

John Watson, MD, a Duke Health cardiothoracic surgeon, has returned to his home state to care for heart patients, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to our community.

“It is an honor to return to North Carolina to practice medicine and to be a part of the prestigious heart program at UNC Health Southeastern,” said Dr. Watson, who has relatives from both Maxton and Laurinburg. He brings with him from Illinois to Lumberton his wife, mother and two adult children.

“The hospitality that has been demonstrated to my family and me has been excellent,” he added.

Dr. Watson has joined UNC Health Southeastern Heart and Vascular where he will perform procedures in his specialty areas including open heart, lung and vascular surgery.

He is an Air Force veteran and completed his medical degree at Wake Forest University’s Bowman Gray School of Medicine. He completed a general surgery residency at Wilford Hall United States Air Force Medical Center with additional training through a cardiothoracic fellowship at New England Deaconess Hospital. He also trained as a clinical associate in cardiac surgery at The Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio.

“It is a privilege to be a part of the experienced cardiothoracic team at UNC Health Southeastern, led by Drs. Terry Lowry and Charles Anene,” added Dr. Watson. “I look forward to serving the patients in this area and being involved in the community.”