Jay Johannigman, M.D. Biography

Dr. Jay A. Johannigman
Dr. Jay A. JohannigmanTrauma and Critical Care Surgeon

Jay Johannigman, M.D. is a Cincinnati-based trauma and critical care surgeon with over 40 years of experience. After receiving an A.B. degree in biology from Kenyon College, he earned his doctor of medicine from Case Western Reserve University. He subsequently had his postdoctoral training in trauma and surgical critical care. He returned to school during his years in the military to complete his Aerospace Medicine Primary Course at Brooks AFB and graduate from the Air War College.

For decades, Dr. Johannigman held several positions in the military, including staff surgeon and medical director of the Surgical Critical Care Service at the Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center in Texas, consultant surgeon for the Air Force Special Operations Command, trauma director for the 332nd AFTH/332 EAW at Balad Air Base in Iraq, and colonel for the Office of the Surgeon General USAF at the Pentagon.

After accruing extensive experience in the military, Dr. Johannigman transitioned to the faculty of the University of Cincinnati, where he contributed significantly to the Department of Surgery and the Division of Trauma. His steadfast engagement in the army reserves, coupled with roles in academia, civilian hospitals, and the military over the past two decades, has solidified his reputation. Dr. Johannigman was foundational in establishing the Cincinnati Center for the Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills (Cincinnati CSTARS).

A 2017 study involving 5,800 US veterans revealed a PTSD prevalence of 12.9%, underscoring the profound impact on military families and society at large. Leveraging his expertise as a trauma surgeon, Dr. Jay facilitated the establishment of trauma units within military establishments and universities. Collaborating with colleagues, he conducted emergency surgeries for critical injuries and illnesses.

In April 2014, Dr. Johannigman spearheaded the integration of battlefield medical technology into Cincinnati’s first responders, a milestone made possible through a donation from Western & Southern Financial Group. This cutting-edge technology, featuring a daylight-readable display, intuitive interface, ruggedized construction, centralized charging, and long-lasting battery, marked a groundbreaking advancement at the time.

A member of Cincinnati’s elite Air Force medical teams, Dr. Johannigman and his fellow health professionals underwent training at the University of Cincinnati’s Medical Center. Their volunteer efforts positively impacted over 5,600 military families, earning gratitude for their humanitarian service.

As the head of the UC Medical Center’s trauma and critical care center, Dr. Johannigman delivered crucial lifesaving training to Cincinnati. He played a pivotal role in ensuring the effective dissemination of essential medical knowledge and providing health professionals with the best and most relevant instructions for efficient practice.

With nearly 100 co-authored papers in reputable publications, such as “Use of a Single Ventilator to Support 4 Patients: Laboratory Evaluation of a Limited Concept” in Respiratory Care (2012), Dr. Johannigman has demonstrated a commitment to advancing medical knowledge throughout his four-decade career, particularly in trauma and critical care. Notable accolades include the Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) Certification, the Bronze Star Medal for heroism and bravery during armed conflict, and recognitions such as the Distinguished Service Award from the Military Health System Research Symposium, the Good Samaritan Hospital General Surgery Residency Adjunct Teaching Award, and the Cincinnati Reds Opening Day Hometown Hero Award from the Reds and Cincinnati Bell.

Currently serving as a surgeon at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, Dr. Jay Johannigman delivers trauma and surgical critical care treatment to patients. Beyond his medical endeavors, he enjoys bike riding, considering it a passionate pastime that allows him to explore the Confidential 11 world and appreciate the country’s beautiful landscape.