Submitted by Ryma Lindquist, WWH
BALDWIN, WI – Western Wisconsin Health (WWH) is pleased to welcome Dr. Mark Bigbey, a surgical resident from the University of Wisconsin’s Rural General Surgery Program to its team. Dr. Bigbey is passionate about improving access to surgical care in rural communities and is completing part of his residency training at WWH.
Dr. Bigbey grew up on the outskirts of Tucson, Arizona, where his early exposure to the challenges faced by underrepresented populations inspired him to pursue a career in medicine. “Participating in and witnessing care for family members gave me a firsthand look at the disparities in access to healthcare,” he shared. “It motivated me to become part of the solution.”
After graduating summa cum laude from Grand Canyon University with a bachelor’s degree in biology, Dr. Bigbey attended the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson. During medical school, he participated in the Rural Health Professions Program, completing rotations across rural Arizona, including in tribal and reservation communities. These experiences shaped his desire to pursue a path in rural general surgery.
“I was drawn to surgery because it combines my interests in helping people, serving underserved populations, and honing a craft that requires dedication and continuous learning,” said Dr. Bigbey. “The University of Wisconsin’s General Surgery Program offered exactly what I was looking for, exceptional academic training with the opportunity to practice as a true ‘general’ general surgeon.”
Dr. Bigbey is currently a PGY-2 (post-graduate year two) resident, and Baldwin is his first rural rotation site. He has been impressed by the range of procedures rural surgeons perform and the collaborative nature of care at WWH. “It’s incredible to see how general surgeons here balance their scope of practice to meet community needs while also knowing when to refer patients for specialized care,” he said. “You also feel a strong sense of connection; the people you care for are the same people you might run into at the grocery store.”
Mentorship has played an important role in his journey. Dr. Bigbey credits rural mentors including Dr. Nazhone Yazzie, Dr. Vanessa Jensen, and Dr. Carlos Gonzalez, as well as academic mentors such as Dr. Aaron Mason, for guiding him toward a rural-focused career.
Looking ahead, Dr. Bigbey plans to practice in a hospital setting that primarily serves American Indian communities, such as an Indian Health Service or Tribal facility. “I hope to build trust within the communities I serve and provide high-quality care close to home,” he shared.
Outside of the operating room, Dr. Bigbey enjoys staying active, camping, fishing, attending sporting events, and exploring local food spots in search of the best pizza, burgers, steak, and ice cream.
“We are thrilled to have Dr. Bigbey join our team and contribute to the exceptional care we provide,” said Nick Berger, Specialty Services Director. “His passion for rural health aligns perfectly with our mission of ensuring access to high-quality surgical care for our communities.”
For more information about surgical services at Western Wisconsin Health, visit wwhealth.org or call 715-684-1111.
