WEST PLAINS, MO – Ozarks Healthcare is pleased to welcome David Tonkin, MD, to the medical team at Ozarks Healthcare Pain Management, expanding access to specialized care for patients experiencing acute and chronic pain. Tonkin will join established Pain Management providers Ryan Roberts, MD, and Vanessa Fowler, FNP, who bring a history of compassionate, personalized care to the community.
Tonkin brings decades of experience in anesthesiology, interventional pain management, and substance use treatment. His unique background allows him to provide comprehensive care for patients dealing with complex pain conditions, while also addressing issues related to opioid use disorder.
He earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) and a Master of Science in Medical Sciences from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. Tonkin is board certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology, with subspecialty certifications in Pain Medicine and Addiction Medicine. He is also trained in a variety of advanced and minimally invasive spine procedures, including kyphoplasty, lumbar decompression, and sacroiliac joint fusion.
Originally from Pennsylvania, Tonkin completed his anesthesiology training in Pittsburgh and later pursued a fellowship in pain management at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit. Over the course of his career, he has practiced in a variety of settings and owned and operated multiple pain management clinics across the country.
Through those experiences, Tonkin developed a strong interest in helping patients safely manage pain while also addressing the challenges of opioid dependence.
“Some of the most rewarding work I’ve done is helping patients regain control of their lives,” Tonkin said. “When someone comes in struggling with pain or opioid dependence and you’re able to help them get back to work, reconnect with their family, and feel like themselves again, that’s incredibly meaningful.”
Tonkin said he was drawn to Ozarks Healthcare because of its collaborative environment and the opportunity to work alongside other specialists.
“After many years practicing independently, I’m looking forward to working as part of a healthcare team again,” he said. “Having colleagues to collaborate with and a strong health system behind you allows you to provide the best care possible for patients.”
Terence Farrell, President and CEO of Ozarks Healthcare, said Tonkin’s experience will strengthen the organization’s ability to provide comprehensive pain care to the region.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Tonkin to Ozarks Healthcare,” Farrell said. “His extensive training and experience in pain management will be an asset to our patients. Expanding access to specialized pain services is an important part of our mission to meet the growing healthcare needs of the communities we serve.”
As a physician who grew up in a small town, Dr. Tonkin said he appreciates the close-knit nature of communities like West Plains and the relationships that come with practicing medicine in a rural setting.
“I’ve always valued the relationships you can build in smaller communities,” he said. “It’s rewarding to take the time to truly get to know patients and help them improve their quality of life.”
Ozarks Healthcare Pain Management provides evaluation and treatment options for a wide range of pain conditions, including back and neck pain, nerve pain, joint pain, and other chronic pain disorders. The clinic focuses on individualized treatment plans designed to reduce pain, improve function, and enhance overall quality of life.
To learn more about Ozarks Healthcare Pain Management or to schedule an appointment, visit www.ozarkshealthcare.com or call 417‑256‑1761.
