Physician Introduces Neurosurgical Specialty to Quad Cities

When Harvey G. Thomas, MD, FRCFC, joined YRMC PhysicianCare in September, he brought outstanding credentials, an exceptional team and years of experience. He also brought a much-needed medical service to the Quad Cities.

“With Dr. Thomas’ arrival, we welcomed one of Arizona’s finest neurosurgeons to our community,” said Don Bolin, MBA, CMPE, Executive Director of YRMC’s employed physician network, YRMC PhysicianCare. “Today, residents in need of delicate back surgery have access to this extraordinary neurosurgeon.”

Dr. Thomas comes to the Quad Cities and YRMC PhysicianCare from the Phoenix-area, where he helped found Arizona Spine and Joint Hospital in Mesa and also served as its Chairman of the Board. Before that, Dr. Thomas held the prestigious post of Surgery Department Chair at Chandler Regional Medical Center. Dr. Thomas is board certified as a neurosurgeon by the American Board of Neurological Surgeons. He also is active in the American Association of Neurosurgeons and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons.

“I’m delighted to join YRMC PhysicianCare and YRMC,” he said. “The staff is very impressive. They know how to care for critically ill patients. They also were very eager to begin a neurosurgical program. With that kind of enthusiasm, there was no question about whether or not I would join the team.”

Dr. Thomas—an expert on solutions to chronic back pain and cranial procedures—is a sought-after speaker for national medical conferences. He also publishes extensively in professional journals. One of his most prized recognitions, however, came in 2010 when he was selected as a “Top Doc” by Phoenix Magazine.

“The ‘Top Docs’ are selected by a vote of physicians, your peers,” he said. “That was quite an honor to me.”

Originally from Canada, Dr. Thomas received his medical degree from the University of Calgary. He pursued an internship at Edmonton General Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada and a residency in neurosurgery from Foothills Hospital in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

When he re-located his neurosurgical practice to the Quad Cities, Dr. Thomas’ wellestablished team joined him.

“This was a group decision,” he said. “My core staff members and our families collaborated on the decision. In the end, the answer was a unanimous and enthusiastic yes!”

That core staff includes physician assistant Jeremy Platt, PA, PA-C.

“The addition of Dr. Thomas and his team is a boost to our entire community,” said Tim Barnett, President and CEO of Yavapai Regional Medical Center. “He brings extraordinary experience and also expands the scope of medical specialties available to the people of the Quad Cities.”

Dr. Thomas may be reached at:
YRMC PhysicianCare
820 E. Ainsworth Drive, Suite B
Prescott, AZ 86301
928-445-4818

When he is not caring for patients, Dr. Thomas likes to mountain bike on nearby trails.

“Even before we moved to the area, we visited nearly every weekend. This is such a welcoming community. It’s a joy to call it home now.”