(Mission Times Courier, San Diego, Ca) -  Dr. Curtis McGuyer, pathologist, has been named Alvarado Hospital chief of staff, effective the first of January. The appointment is well deserved following 19 years of duty at the hospital, including serving as the chief of staff elect for the past year.

As the chief of staff, Dr. McGuyer now has many new duties in addition to continuing his position as a pathologist. This includes enforcing the rules and regulations of medical bylaws for patient safety, review policy and procedures, being a spokesman for the more than 450 members of the medical staff, responsibility for sanctions and continued education, interpreting policies to the governing staff, and appointing committee chairs for standing committees.

In addition to becoming chief of staff, Dr. McGuyer is also a California State Commissioner for the College of American Pathologists and helps direct two reference labs in San Diego. He is also a member of the San Diego Medical Society, California Medical Society and American Society of Clinical Pathology. He was voted "Top Doctor" by San Diego Magazine in 2006, 2008 and 2009 for his medical contributions to the community.

"As a right brain thinker, I find working on difficult cases in the lab similar to solving pieces in a challenging puzzle," said Dr. McGuyer. "It's wonderful to be able to diagnose and solve an issue while helping others improve their health; I couldn't ask for a more rewarding job."

Dr. McGuyer grew up in Texas and earned his bachelor's degree in chemistry from the University of Texas, El Paso. Following college, Dr. McGuyer spent eight years in the United States Navy.  He enrolled in the U.S. Navy Scholarship Program to help pay for medical school at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. At Baylor, Dr. McGuyer developed his interest in pathology.  After graduating, he became active duty and spent one year on the USS Okinawa as the general medical officer. Afterwards, he became a lieutenant commander. While still enlisted in the U.S. Navy, his residency program at Balboa Hospital brought him to San Diego where he would begin his successful career in medicine.

Dr. McGuyer resides on Coronado Island and is the father of two sons, ages 21 and 16.  When he is away from the hospital and his lab work, he enjoys playing guitar, biking and backpacking.