On the Front Lines: A Spotlight on DCMS Member Dr. John Kiel

By Kristy Williford, DCMS Communications Manager

DCMS Member Dr. John Kiel has found himself on the front lines in various ways throughout his career in medicine; as an emergency medicine physician at UF Health Jacksonville and as a Major in the Army National Guard.

The draw to both careers started a very young age.

“I was naturally drawn to medicine by the example set by my mother who was a nurse. My stepfather had a PhD and was very supportive of academic pursuits and the two together created a fertile ground.”

In 2011, while in medical school at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Kiel joined the National Guard.

“I always knew that I would serve in some capacity and that is primarily because of the legacy of my father who is a retired Army officer.”

The combination of military and hospital life has always made sense to Dr. Kiel.

“My favorite part about the military is the people. It generally draws like-minded individuals from all walks of life who volunteered to be there. When you hear or read that military service is about the people to your left and right, they mean it and they are right. In the context of military medicine, it advances my civilian emergency medicine career by increased training and education in trauma.”

Dr. Kiel grew up in Bangor, Maine but made his way to Jacksonville right out of fellowship. He feels fortunate to have found UF Health where he was given the opportunity to practice both emergency medicine and sports medicine.

“I chose emergency medicine primarily because I like the idea of being a jack of all trades. EM physicians are often the second best at just about every specialty. I also like the career and schedule flexibility provided by the specialty.”

Dr. Kiel practices emergency medicine about 75% of the time and sports medicine the other 25%. It’s a perfect fit as he’s always had a personal and professional interest in sports medicine and orthopedics.

“I've had several major knee surgeries so I know what it feels like to be a patient,” he noted.

When he’s not at the hospital, serving with the National Guard, or spending time with his daughter, Harper, and two dogs, Remmy and Huey, Dr. Kiel enjoys giving back to the First Coast community he now calls home.

“I am on the Board of Directors for the Jacksonville Sports Medicine Program representing UF. I also volunteer as a head physician for Terry Parker High School covering their football games in the fall.”

Additionally, Dr. Kiel donates time once a month with Volunteers in Medicine providing free care to those who have trouble accessing the healthcare system. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Duval County Medical Society.

Recently, Dr. Kiel returned from a months-long deployment to the middle east and while he enjoys his military service, he’s “glad to be home.” The DCMS is also fortunate to have him back safe and sound and thankful for his service to both community and country!