In February 2025, President Donald Trump appointed Navy Captain Sean Barbabella, a distinguished military physician with extensive combat experience, as his personal doctor.
This appointment not only underscores Barbabella’s exemplary medical career but also highlights the significant role of A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) in shaping leading medical professionals.
Educational Foundation in Kirksville
Captain Barbabella’s medical journey began in Kirksville, Missouri, where he graduated from ATSU-KCOM in 1996. ATSU-KCOM, established in 1892, is renowned as the founding institution of osteopathic medicine, emphasizing a holistic approach to patient care.
The college has a rich history of producing physicians who integrate comprehensive medical knowledge with a focus on preventive care.
Military Medical Career
Following his graduation, Barbabella completed his residency at the Portsmouth Naval Medical Center in Virginia, specializing in emergency and tactical medicine.
His career is marked by multiple deployments to conflict zones, including Iraq and Afghanistan, where he provided critical care under challenging conditions.
In 2009, during a deployment to Afghanistan, Barbabella was instrumental in pioneering the Mobile Trauma Bay, a large armored vehicle designed to treat battlefield casualties efficiently. His dedication and bravery during this period earned him the Purple Heart after sustaining injuries from an improvised explosive device (IED) blast.
In 2012, Barbabella’s exemplary service as a division surgeon in Afghanistan’s Helmand province led to him being awarded the Legion of Merit, one of the military’s highest honors.
During this year-long deployment, he led a team of over 40 medical officers and 20 physician assistants, treating numerous soldiers affected by explosive concussions and other combat-related injuries.
Leadership Roles and Contributions
Beyond the battlefield, Captain Barbabella has held significant leadership positions within the Navy’s medical community. In May 2023, he assumed command of the Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point, where he was responsible for overseeing healthcare services for military personnel and their families.
His tenure was marked by initiatives aimed at enhancing medical readiness and the quality of care provided.
Appointment as Physician to the President
Captain Barbabella’s extensive experience in emergency medicine and his proven leadership in high-pressure environments led to his selection as President Trump’s personal physician in February 2025.
This appointment reflects the administration’s emphasis on ensuring top-tier medical expertise for the President, especially given the evolving security landscape and the President’s previous encounters with health threats.
Key Milestones in Captain Sean Barbabella’s Career
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1996 | Graduated from A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine |
| 2009 | Deployed to Afghanistan; pioneered the Mobile Trauma Bay; awarded the Purple Heart |
| 2012 | Received the Legion of Merit for exemplary service in Afghanistan |
| 2023 | Assumed command of Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point |
| 2025 | Appointed as Physician to President Donald Trump |
Navy Captain Sean Barbabella’s journey from Kirksville to the White House is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and the foundational education he received at ATSU-KCOM.
His career embodies the principles of osteopathic medicine, emphasizing holistic and preventive care, even in the most challenging environments.
As President Trump’s personal physician, Barbabella brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, ensuring the highest standard of medical care for the nation’s leader.