Dr. David Tonkin has joined the medical staff at Ozarks Healthcare Pain Management, practicing alongside Dr. Ryan Roberts and family nurse practitioner Vanessa Fowler.
Tonkin specializes in anesthesiology, interventional pain management and substance use treatment. His clinical background includes treating complex pain conditions as well as addressing opioid use disorder.
He earned his medical degree and a master's degree in medical sciences from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. Tonkin is board-certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology, with subspecialty certifications in pain medicine and addiction medicine. He is also trained in a variety of advanced and minimally invasive spine procedures, including kyphoplasty, lumbar decompression and sacroiliac joint fusion.
Originally from Pennsylvania, Tonkin completed his anesthesiology training in Pittsburgh before pursuing a fellowship in pain management at the Henry Ford Health System in Detroit. Prior to joining Ozarks Healthcare, he owned and operated multiple pain management clinics across the country.
Through those experiences, Tonkin said, he developed a strong interest in helping patients safely manage pain while also addressing the challenges of opioid dependence.
“Some of the most rewarding work I’ve done is helping patients regain control of their lives,” Tonkin said. “When someone comes in struggling with pain or opioid dependence and you’re able to help them get back to work, reconnect with their family and feel like themselves again, that’s incredibly meaningful.”
Tonkin noted he was drawn to Ozarks Healthcare because of its collaborative environment and the opportunity to work alongside other specialists.
“After many years practicing independently, I’m looking forward to working as part of a health care team again,” he said. “Having colleagues to collaborate with and a strong health system behind you allows you to provide the best care possible for patients.”
OZH President and CEO Terence Farrell said Tonkin’s experience will strengthen the organization’s ability to provide comprehensive pain care to the region.
“His extensive training and experience in pain management will be an asset to our patients,” Farrell said. “Expanding access to specialized pain services is an important part of our mission to meet the growing health care needs of the communities we serve.”
As a physician who grew up in a small town, Tonkin said he appreciates the close-knit nature of communities like West Plains and the relationships that come with practicing medicine in a rural setting.
“I’ve always valued the relationships you can build in smaller communities,” he said. “It’s rewarding to take the time to truly get to know patients and help them improve their quality of life.”
Ozarks Healthcare Pain Management provides evaluation and treatment for a variety of conditions, including back, neck, nerve and joint pain. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.ozarkshealthcare.com or call 417-256-1761.
