This May, AAPM is proud to spotlight Dr. Richard Barnhart, DO, a leader in acute pain medicine, educator, and researcher dedicated to improving perioperative care and patient recovery.

Dr. Barnhart serves as Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Director of Acute Pain Medicine at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. In these roles, he leads efforts to optimize pain management strategies that support safer, faster recoveries for surgical patients.

His path into acute pain medicine and regional anesthesia was driven by a desire to provide truly comprehensive perioperative care. Today, his clinical work focuses on opioid-sparing strategies, regional anesthesia techniques, and enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols—approaches that not only improve patient comfort but also help patients return more quickly to their daily lives.

At AAPM, Dr. Barnhart plays a key role as Co-Chair of the Scientific Abstracts Committee, where he helps shape the research presented at PainConnect and elevate the scientific dialogue across the Academy. His leadership ensures that emerging evidence and innovation continue to move the field of pain medicine forward.

Outside of his clinical and academic work, Dr. Barnhart enjoys international travel and spending time with his family—and his three cats. His curiosity and commitment to growth extend beyond medicine, reflecting the same thoughtful approach he brings to patient care.

Dr. Barnhart’s dedication to advancing acute pain management, improving surgical outcomes, and supporting research excellence exemplifies the mission of AAPM. We are honored to feature him as May’s Member Focus.