About Rafael Alvarez, MD

Dr. Alvarez completed his General Surgery Residency at the University of Michigan after obtaining his Doctor of Medicine degree from the same institution. He completed additional training in Patient Safety and Quality Improvement sponsored by the National Center for Patient Safety while practicing General Surgery at the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System. He acquired further training in the surgical management of obesity utilizing laparoscopic and robotic-assisted platforms at University Hospital - Case Western Reserve University. His clinical interests encompass the surgical management of obesity.

His academic work focuses on improving the quality and safety of metabolic and bariatric surgery and understanding those barriers impacting patient access to this treatment with the goal of making the surgical management of obesity readily available and accessible to patients in need.

Dr. Alvarez believes in collaborative patient care during which all members of the healthcare team contribute to improving the quality of life of our patient community. “My motivation is to learn what my patients’ goals are so our team can support them through an informed care plan selection. This is how we help patients achieve their health and life goals.”

Outside of his professional life, Dr. Alvarez looks forward to spending time with his wife and daughter. He enjoys playing tennis and music.