Meena R. Kannan, M.D., MPH, joins Shepherd Center’s Medical Staff
Neurologist Meena R. Kannan, M.D., MPH, recently joined the Andrew C. Carlos Multiple Sclerosis Institute at Shepherd Center.
Dr. Kannan earned her medical degree and her Master of Public Health from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, followed by a residency in neurology at Emory University School of Medicine, and a fellowship in multiple sclerosis and neuroimmunology at Oregon Health & Science University. She is board-certified in neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
“My approach to patient-centered care is grounded in the belief that the best outcomes come from combining early diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and patient empowerment,” said Dr. Kannan. “During residency, I had the opportunity to rotate through the MS Institute, and it left a lasting impression on me. What I remember most was the truly interdisciplinary approach to patient care. I saw neurologists, rehabilitation physicians, therapists, psychologists, nurses, and social workers working seamlessly together toward common goals for each patient rather than functioning in separate silos. Shepherd Center offers a unique opportunity to practice medicine in a setting that aligns closely with my values.”
Jacqueline Rosenthal, M.D., medical director of the Andrew C. Carlos Multiple Sclerosis Institute at Shepherd Center, echoed Dr. Kannan’s sentiments on collaboration and patient-centered care.
“Dr. Kannan brings a remarkable breadth of experience in the care of individuals living with multiple sclerosis, along with a deeply collaborative, patient-centered approach,” she says. “Her commitment to partnering with patients and working across disciplines aligns seamlessly with the values of our program. We are excited to welcome Dr. Kannan to the team and are confident she will make a meaningful impact on our patients and our community.”
Dr. Kannan is originally from Mobile, Alabama. When she’s not at work, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, including her dogs, Baron and Charlie, backpacking, volunteering with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy to help maintain trails, and attending concerts.
With five decades of experience, Shepherd Center provides world-class clinical care, research, and family support for people experiencing the most complex conditions, including spinal cord and brain injuries, multi-trauma, traumatic amputations, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and pain. An elite center ranked by U.S. News as one of the nation’s top hospitals for rehabilitation, Shepherd Center is also recognized as both Spinal Cord Injury and Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems. Shepherd Center treats thousands of patients annually with unmatched expertise and unwavering compassion to help them begin again.