Our Mission

The mission of The Chiari Treatment Center is to provide the highest level of care to those suffering from Chiari I Malformation. To educate patients, families and physicians about this disorder and the options available. To conduct research and continue to refine and advance treatment and care of people with Chiari I Malformation. And to provide a dignified and compassionate atmosphere where we build trusting partnerships with patients and their families.

Our Philosophy of Care

At The Chiari Treatment Center we begin our relationship with each patient by getting to know them. Though the cause of their suffering is our focus, we want to know as much as we can about the whole person. This will not only help us in our approach to treatment, it will also help us to better manage their expectations about the risks and most realistic outcomes following treatment. Through this process of getting to know our patients we carefully listen to them and address their concerns. We also take the time to help patients understand what can often be very confusing clinical information. Because our Philosophy of Care model places the patient in the center - they become a major part of our care team. Therefore, they need to be well educated, feel comfortable and confident about moving forward with this procedure (if it is needed), and know that they are always in control of their care. (Left to Right: Pam Elser, Dr. John Oró , Kimberly Sexton, Brandon Hodge and Stacey Williams.)

Who We Are

Medical Director of Neurosurgery:
John J. Oró, M.D.

Pioneering advanced treatment for Chiari I Malformation, neurosurgeon Dr. John Oró is one of the most recognized leaders in his specialty nationwide. As the Medical Director for The Neurosurgery Center of Colorado and founder of The Chiari Treatment Center, Dr. Oró continues to refine traditional treatment methods in order to improve results for patients with these disorders. This dedication to advanced treatment methods for Chiari I Malformation began during Dr. Oró’s fifteen year tenure as Professor and Chief of Neurosurgery for the University of Missouri. Though Dr. Oró’s expertise spans a wide variety of neurological areas/disorders, his dedication to helping those who suffer from Chiari I Malformation has made him one of the most sought after surgeons in the country by both patients and physicians.

Neuroscience Clinical Coordinator:
Pam Elser, RN, BSN, CNRN

With 20 years of nursing experience including medical/surgical, telemetry, home care, intensive care, nurse education, patient/family education, program development and community outreach – Pam brings a world of medical knowledge and clinical experience to The Chiari Treatment Center. Not only has she developed extensive stroke, neuro, community outreach and community education programs, as a seasoned leader and clinical educator, she continues to enhance the skills of the entire care team and keeps everyone at the very top of their game. And, as a seasoned patient and family educator, she helps patients understand clinical information so they can make the most informed decision. Then, if a patient decides that a recommended procedure is right for them, Pam works alongside Dr. Oró and the care team to ensure that patients are fully prepared both mentally and physically.

Spine Clinical Coordinator (TMCA):
Kimberly Sexton, RN, MBA 

As an exceptional nurse and recognized leader, Kimberly has more than 20 years of acute care experience in the areas of cardiac, trauma, neuro and spine. Outstanding accomplishments include her work in the development of a comprehensive spine program as well as the Stroke Alert program. In addition to program development/management, Kimberly provides one-on-one patient education for spine patients as well as a four hour surgery preparation class. After surgery, she follows their care while working closely with physicians, family and nurses to ensure patients are set up for successful recovery.

Practice Manager: 
Brandon Hodge

As an experienced administrator, Brandon is responsible for managing the daily operations of The Chiari Treatment Center. In addition to running a very smooth and organized office environment, he is dedicated to simplifying tedious tasks such as registration/insurance paperwork and assisting you with convenient appointment scheduling. His goal is to ensure that your overall experience is very pleasant and that all of your administrative questions are answered.

Medical Assistant: 
Stacey Williams, CMA 

As an experienced certified medical assistant, Stacey brings a solid understanding of the medical office environment.  Her knowledge of physician and nurse support needs as well as patient check-in and set-up procedures, allows The Chiari Treatment Center to run smoothly, stay on schedule and provide a comfortable and pleasant patient environment.

Chiari Education Consultant
Diane Mueller, ND, RN, C-FNP

Medical Consultants:
Dr. Kim Baker - Neuroradiologist
Dr. Michael Dennington - Otolaryngology
Dr. Lance LaCerte - Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Robert W. Rees-Jones - Endocrinology
Dr. Kevin Smith - Pain Medicine