This April, we’re highlighting Laura D. Clark, MD, in our Member Spotlight series, nominated by Alex Bautista, MD. Dr. Clark is the director of acute pain and regional anesthesia at the University of Louisville’s department of anesthesiology and perioperative medicine.

“Throughout her distinguished career in anesthesia, Dr. Clark has devoted herself entirely to the field of acute pain management. As the director of the acute pain service for several decades, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership,” Dr. Bautista shares. “In addition to her past role as an associate editor of the Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine journal, Dr. Clark has conducted numerous hands-on ultrasound courses for ASRA Pain Medicine. Her unwavering commitment extends beyond her professional accomplishments; she actively inspires and mentors young trainees, emphasizing the critical significance of enhancing patient pain management.”

Dr. Clark graduated summa cum laude from Western Kentucky University with her BS in Arts and Sciences before earning her medical degree at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. She completed her anesthesiology residency as well as a cardiac anesthesia, OB/pain fellowship at the Albany Medical Center Hospital in Albany, NY.

Since 1991, Dr. Clark has been responsible for anesthesia residents, clinical supervision, and clinical care as the director of regional anesthesia and acute pain. Her clinical experience also includes working in operating rooms at the University of Louisville Hospital and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center Louisville, both in Louisville, KY.

Having belonged to a plethora of professional societies throughout her impressive career, Dr. Clark currently belongs to the American Society of Regional Anesthesia Pain Medicine, and the Orthopedic Anesthesia Pain and Rehabilitation Society Board. She has peer reviewed articles for many journals, including Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, Anesthesiology, Anesthesiology Research and Practice, Pain Medicine, Pain Physician, and Techniques in Orthopedics.