James A. Harris
MD, FACS

Mission & Approach

“As someone who has always been intrigued by human anatomy and physiology, medicine invariably seemed like an ideal fit for me. Throughout medical school, I was exposed to a variety of specialties and admit that I tried hard to find one that I liked more than General Surgery. Surely, I thought, there was an easier path; one that might be shorter, less mentally and physically demanding, and require less personal sacrifices. In the end, I picked General Surgery because it so matched my interests and skills. Today I can say that, truly, there is no job that I would rather do.

After my medical training, I was privileged to serve in the US Army as a surgeon caring for our soldiers and their families. I also spent time in academics researching and advancing the art of surgery. I am particularly proud to have been at the forefront of developing techniques in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. Now in private practice I continue to practice those techniques and specialize in benign and malignant conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. As well, a portion of my practice is dedicated to weight loss surgery – an extremely rewarding surgery that can have such a positive impact on a person’s life. I get great satisfaction from fixing a problem, especially when it is for the betterment of another person.

As a goal-oriented person and surgeon, I will always carefully investigate a patient’s issue to determine exactly what the problem is and then determine whether surgery is the best course of action. If so, I formulate a plan to proceed in the safest and most effective manner. Whatever the situation, I always strive to carefully explain everything to my patients in an understandable manner and to treat them exactly how I would like to be treated; with compassion, patience, professionalism and excellence.

Medicine aside, perhaps my proudest accomplishment in life is having raised two sons as a single father. I was fortunate to have grown up in a large family in the upper peninsula of Michigan and can say that I value the family unit more than anything else.”