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James H. Shoptaw, MD, FACS

Cardiac Services, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Thoracic Surgery,

SGMC CardioVascular Institute

2409 North Patterson St.

Valdosta, GA 31602

(229) 259-4369

Expertise

Education

Medical School: Medical College of Georgia School of Medicine

Residency: Baylor College of Medicine

Fellowship: Baylor College of Medicine

Boards: American Board of Surgery, American Board Thoracic Surgery


Get to Know Dr. Shoptaw

Dr. Shoptaw has been practicing in cardiothoracic surgery for more than 22 years and specializes in carotid endarterectomies, revascularization procedures for lower extremities, abdominal aortic aneurysms, treatments for lung cancer and coronary artery disease.

Dr. Shoptaw received his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, GA. He completed his general surgery residency and fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX.  He is American Board Certified in both surgery and thoracic surgery.

Dr. Shoptaw shared that patients can expect him to be honest and transparent with them as their physician.

“They say the three A’s that make a good physician are availability, affability, and ability. I’d like to think I’m available, I’m affable, and I embark on things where I can help patients and be honest with them. When there is something I can’t handle I will get someone who has a better breath of experience in those areas to make sure that my patients are taken care of,” said Dr. Shoptaw.

Dr. Shoptaw explained he is looking forward to living in South Georgia.

“Faith, family, and the excellent opportunity to provide care at South Georgia Medical Center make Lowndes County an excellent place for us,” said Dr. Shoptaw.

Dr. Shoptaw is married to Helen and together they have four boys, James, Robert, Samuel and William. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family, watching his boys participate in sporting activities, going to the lake, fishing, and hunting.

About Peripheral Arterial Disease, and When You Should See a Specialist


Raves

“Dr. Shoptaw puts in countless hours and always goes above and beyond to make sure his patients’ needs are met. He is a wonderful surgeon to work with. He exemplifies human kindness to his patients, as well as fellow staff members daily. As an RN, I would trust him with my care, and the care of my family! He is a pleasure to work with and is never degrading or belittling.”

“I experienced a heart attack in late August 2022. Subsequently, thereto, I received a quadruple bypass operation and more recently, an ICD implant. Notably, I have submitted the names of the three cardiologists whose surgeries and care have given me a new opportunity to enjoy a full life, post-heart attack. I can say with great admiration that their care and treatments have been beyond anything I would have prayed for, and I am forever grateful.

Lastly, and significant to mention, all the cardiac unit staff have been professional, helpful, efficient, and kind.”