An accomplished surgeon whose specialties include coronary bypass, heart valve, lung cancer, and robotic lung procedures, James A. Obney, MD, has been active in this capacity at Mount Carmel Medical Group since 2017 and as a staff physician at Fairfield Medical Center since 2023. Among his numerous responsibilities, he generally conducts two or three surgeries four days a week, sees patients for post-operation consults, and makes rounds with his team. Additionally, at Mount Carmel, he initiated a program for robotic lung surgery, which he then brought to Fairfield.

Dr. Obney’s passion for medicine was ignited while in high school; at 16, he underwent surgery at the Cleveland Clinic. During his eight-day hospital stay, he witnessed the experiences of other children and adolescents undergoing similar medical procedures, which inspired him to pursue this career. Upon graduating, he earned a Doctor of Medicine from the Medical College of Ohio at Toledo in 1993 and subsequently enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he would serve for 13 years, rise to the rank of lieutenant colonel, and utilize his surgical expertise while deployed to Iraq: his dedication to his profession and country with the 874^th forward surgical team in Kirkuk and the 67^th Combat Support Hospital in Mosul.

Extending beyond his clinical work, Dr. Obney and other cardiac surgeons were sent to VA hospitals following the introduction of Tricare, a health care plan for military beneficiaries. He worked at the James Haley VA Hospital in Tampa, Florida, for five years, serving as the section chief of cardiac surgery before relocating to Texas to enter private practice. In addition, he had a clinical teaching appointment with the University of South Florida and helped residents complete their clinical rotations under his supervision. His role as a mentor and educator underscores his commitment to the future of medicine and inspires those around him.

In addition to his positions, Dr. Obney is a member of the Florida Society of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeons, the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, and the American Heart Association. He attributes his success to his adaptability and versatility and the strong work ethic he inherited from his parents, who were career educators. Bouncing off their guidance, he emphasizes the importance of humility and the willingness to listen to patients and their families—and always focusing on introspection and taking responsibility before placing blame on others.

Of all his achievements throughout his career, he’s most proud of raising his two children, James and Jacob.