Shelly Timmons, MD, PhD, FACS, FAANS

Dr. Shelly D. Timmons is board certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery and has additional certification in Neurocritical Care. Her practice has spanned the breadth of neurosurgery over the years, with particular interest and expertise in the surgical and medical management of neurotrauma and peripheral nerve problems, including utilization of various surgical techniques for restoration of function. Having grown up in Illinois, Dr. Timmons was educated in a rural public school and at the University of Illinois for her undergraduate and medical degrees. She did her clinical training and PhD studies at the University of Tennessee in Memphis. Dr. Timmons has extensive experience in neurosurgical education, having served as a residency program director, department chair, and assistant dean. She has also had long career experience in research, including as a funded clinical trials investigator, data safety monitoring board member, and peer reviewer for several grant panels …and journals. She has authored numerous papers and book chapters and has lectured extensively around the world. In addition to serving in a plethora of local directorial roles, Dr. Timmons has held many leadership positions in national and international organizations that promote neurosurgical and surgical care, education, research, and advocacy.I endeavor to treat each patient and caregiver I encounter as if they could be my family member, friend, or me. It is important not only to answer questions regarding conditions and treatments, but also to address the anticipated impact on their lives and loved ones, and to respond to emotional states and social needs surrounding care. I always strive to provide the best possible care outcomes through meticulous attention to complex medical data and environments, offering the best surgical technique and up-to-date therapies, and fostering multidisciplinary team care approaches. When available, I also offer research participation and support group opportunities. To facilitate the development of patients' goals of care, it is critical to engage in open communication about potential treatment advantages, challenges, and unknowns, while simultaneously educating about anatomy, illness, or injury. Equally important is assistance in navigation of the medical system; I find it crucial to let patients and families know what to expect, especially in cases when the prognosis is not predictable. In summary, I strive to be not only the best doctor and surgeon I can be for my patients, but also a responsive and empathetic person on whom they can rely in times of trouble.