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Chiari Care Center Staff

The Chiari Care Center is a specialized center dedicated to the evaluation, care and treatment of patients suffering from Chiari I Malformation, syringomyelia and related disorders. We offer medical expertise and advanced technology for the singular focus of treating these particular neurological disorders. Our team concentrates on educating not only patients, but also their families about these less common neurologic diseases.

Established in 1998 as the Chiari Clinic at the University of Missouri in Columbia Missouri, the center moved to Aurora, Colorado in 2005. Since moving, The Chiari Care Center has treated more than 500 patients from across the U.S. and overseas

Meet the Staff

  • Dr. John OróMedical Director

    The Chiari Care Center was founded by Dr. John Oró, neurosurgeon, the Medical Director of Neurosciences at The Medical Center of Aurora.

    Dr. Oró's commitment to advancing Chiari care developed during his tenure as Professor and Chief of Neurosurgery at the University of Missouri. He recalls that, "In 1998, I developed a special interest in Chiari I Malformation because I saw that many people were not receiving adequate evaluation and treatment." Since his initial interest, Dr. Oró's dedication to providing the best surgical procedures and patient care has increased. In 2005, he relocated to Colorado to continue his practice in neurosurgery.

    As the Medical Director of Neurosciences at The Medical Center of Aurora, Dr. Oró's expertise covers a variety of neurological disorders, including brain tumors, cerebral aneurysms and disorders of the spine. His unique dedication to aiding those afflicted with Chiari I Malformation has made him one of the most sought after surgeons in the nation.

    Dr. Oró has been listed among the Best Doctors in America since 2001, and he has been listed among America's Top Surgeons since 2007. Beyond being a highly skilled surgeon, he has held numerous appointments, serving on boards and committees at the state and national levels.

    Dr. Oró's involvement in research for Chiari I Malformation and the tethered spinal cord remains a high priority within his practice. He continues to present his research results and perspectives at national meetings and in published articles and other materials.

     

  • Kimberly SextonNurse Practitioner

    Kimberly Sexton has extensive experience in critical care, business and healthcare consulting as well as nursing education.  She received a Master of Science Degree in Nursing and a post-graduate certificate as a Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs.  Ms. Sexton is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Additionally, she also has a Masters Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Technology Management from the University of Phoenix.

    Ms. Sexton has been a Health One employee for nearly 10 years and brings a well rounded approach to neurological care at The Neurosurgery Center of Colorado and The Medical Center of Aurora.  She has been honored many times for Excellence in Care and is a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.  She is a patient advocate of lifestyle management and wellness. Ms Sexton’s expertise with spine and Chiari patients has sparked a passion for patient pain management and is a member of the American Society for Pain Management Nursing.

     

  • Dr. Diane Mueller, RN, FNP

    Dr. Mueller graduated with a BSN from St. Louis University, a Masters Degree in Nursing from California State University, and a Doctor of Nursing degree from Case Western Reserve University. She is board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 28 years of clinical experience in Neuroscience. She also has extensive experience in the evaluation and treatment of Chiari malformation and related disorders as well as the care of patients with spinal disorders. In 1998, while working with Dr. Oro', Dr. Mueller helped to establish a specialty clinic at the University of Missouri, Columbia, for patients with Chiari malformation and related disorders. She relocated to the Chiari Care Center in January 2011. Along with Dr Oro', she has published a number of research studies on Chiari I malformation and related disorders, and has served as research consultant. She was instrumental in receiving grant awards for several research projects. Dr. Mueller serves as a member of the board of directors for Conquer Chiari, a nonprofit organization devoted to public education/awareness regarding Chiari and related disorders.

     

  • Stephanie Shany, BS, MBAPractice Administrator

    Ms. Shany graduated Cum Laude from Mesa State College with a Bachelor of Science degree, Pre-Medicine emphasis, and two minor degrees in Chemistry and Psychology. She furthered her education and graduated Summa Cum Laude from Jones International University with a Masters degree in Health Services Administration and Management.

    Ms. Shany has extensive experience in medical practice areas, serving as Director of Operations, Manager of Central Functions, and Private Administrator. She has experience in profit and not-for-profit environments, expertise in specialty and primary care operations, and additional knowledge of diverse areas of practice management inclucing billing, call center functions, organizational growth/expansion and JCAHO audits.

    As Practice Administrator for the Chiari Care Center, Ms. Shany's primary focus is patient and employee satisfaction, and clinical operations. Her aptitude for clinic operations helps to ensure smooth and efficient processes, while committing to the highest level of quality care.