Joel Schaefer, MD, FACS

Dr. Joel Schaefer is a board-certified general surgeon with a distinguished career dedicated to surgical excellence and leadership on the Western Slope. After graduating from the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, he completed his residency in General Surgery at the University of Florida, Jacksonville in 2002. Dr. Schaefer is licensed by the Colorado State Board and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).

While Dr. Schaefer maintains a robust practice across the full spectrum of general surgery, he has developed a highly specialized focus in anterior access to the spine.

As a nationally recognized expert in spine exposure, he provides the critical access required for complex spine fusion procedures. His precision in this area allows spine surgeons to focus exclusively on the delicate work of the fusion, ensuring a collaborative and high-standard approach to patient care.

Dr. Schaefer’s career is defined by a deep commitment to the medical community and public health. In addition to practicing Trauma and Acute Care Surgery for his entire career—including 14 years as the Trauma Director at St. Mary’s Hospital—he has held significant leadership positions on several influential boards:

Grand Valley Surgery Center: Served as Chairman of the Board for 10 years.
State Trauma and Emergency Care Board: Served six years with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation: Served as Board Chair.
Eureka! McConnell Science Museum: Served on the Foundation Board.

Dr. Schaefer operates as a key partner to spine surgeons across the Western Slope, bringing specialized care to patients in their own communities. He performs procedures at several premier medical facilities, including:

St. Mary’s Hospital (Grand Junction)
Grand Valley Surgery Center
Grand Junction Community Hospital
Aspen Valley Hospital
Montrose Regional Health

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