Gov. Greg Abbott has reshaped the composition of the Texas Medical Board with the appointment of seven members, including both new and returning faces. Dr. Mary “Kelly” Green joins as an eye surgeon with extensive community involvement, while the reappointments of Dr. Devinder S. Bhatia, Dr. James “JD” Distefano, and others represent continuity in the board's leadership. The new terms for these appointed professionals are set to run through April 13, 2031, reinforcing the state's commitment to regulated medical practice.
Among the appointees is Houston-based Dr. Devinder S. Bhatia, a veteran in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery. With a career spanning over 25 years and his affiliation with several reputable healthcare centers, Bhatia brings a wealth of experience to the board. Dr. Bhatia, who also contributed to various boards, including The Health Museum and the Hermann Park Conservancy, will continue his directorial role on the Texas Medical Board, according to the Governor's office's press release. Luisa del Rosal of Dallas, another reappointee known for her entrepreneurial spirit and educational advocacy, will bring a multidisciplinary approach to the board's proceedings.
Dr. James “JD” Distefano of College Station offers his expertise both as a board-certified physician and an athlete's medical guardian, serving Texas A&M's athletes. His military background adds to the strength and diversity of the medical board. Dr. Tomeka Herod of Allen, with her strong foundation in communications and media, contributes a perspective that is deeply rooted in community service and technological expertise. Herod, working as the president of The Wilkins Group, Inc., lends her varied experience in leadership roles across several community organizations.
Completing the slate, Dr. Robert David Martinez, whose focus centers around Alzheimer's and workforce solutions in Texas, alongside Dr. Jason K. Tibbels' extensive background in virtual care and family medicine, round out a team of professionals appointed to safeguard the health of Texans. Appointed to aid the sick, who serve as family physicians, Tibbels holds a key position as chief medical officer at Lantern while pioneering patient safety for virtual care services. These appointments, as outlined in the Governor's press release, are pending confirmation by the Senate, a standard procedure in solidifying these roles.
