2015 , he transitioned from independent practice to Mon Health Medical Center , allowing him to focus more on patient care while taking on administrative roles , including service line director for general surgery and participation on the Mon Health System board .
Johnson ’ s approach to health care is deeply personal .
“ At its core , health care is about one person at a time ,” he says .
He emphasizes the importance of listening to patients and ensuring they feel cared for , often drawing inspiration from Maya Angelou ’ s words : “ People will forget what you said , people will forget what you did , but people will never forget how you made them feel .”
While surgical advancements have improved patient outcomes , they have also required ongoing learning and adaptation . Balancing these demands with family life has been another challenge .
Johnson credits his wife , Lynn , for her incredible support .
“ The only way to be a successful surgeon is through dedication and sacrifice ,” he says . “ Thankfully , Lynn has
done an amazing job managing our personal life and raising two great children .”
For Johnson , it was an easy decision to return home to West Virginia after training and join his father ’ s practice .
“ West Virginia has always felt like home ,” he says . “ It ’ s a beautiful place , a safe environment to raise children and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the world around me .”
His professional achievements have been recognized with numerous awards . While accolades are a testament to his dedication , Johnson finds his greatest satisfaction in the trust and gratitude of his patients .
Looking ahead , Johnson plans to continue advancing surgical care in West Virginia while mentoring the next generation of surgeons . Through his administrative roles and mission work , he seeks to enhance access to quality health care both locally and globally .
“ One person at a time , I am making a difference for my neighbors and the community that supports me ,” he says . •
Surgical Mission Trips
Dr . Mark Johnson ’ s dedication to service extends far beyond Morgantown . He has always believed in the power of medicine to transform lives , but it wasn ’ t until a surgical mission trip to Brazil during his residency that his belief was solidified into a lifelong calling .
More recently , he has partnered with Dr . David Fogarty and Interplast West Virginia , traveling to Pignon , Haiti , to provide both general and plastic surgery care .
“ The opportunity to care for those with no chance of receiving care without your help is incredibly rewarding ,” he says .
Although a planned return trip this past fall was canceled due to political unrest , the mission has been rescheduled for this spring .
“ The need is so great that it creates a sense of urgency to give more ,” Johnson says . “ It is my plan to continue to support and participate with Dr . Fogarty ’ s organization through the rest of my career .”
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