Dr. Justin Neira Wins NYP's Department of Nursing 2025 Physician of the Year Award

Last week, Dr. Justin Neira received the NewYork-Presbyterian's Department of Nursing Award for the 2025 Physician of the Year. This annual award recognizes the physician who also embodies "The 4 Rs of Nursing Excellence: Recognition, Respect, Retention and Reciprocity." The award was celebrated at NYP Westchester Hospital, where Dr. Neira was joined by NYP leadership, as well as fellow faculty, nurses, staff and some of Dr. Neira's family. Dr. Neira was celebrated for his work, clinical excellence, and the deep empathy he provides in every case. The event was organized by Laurie Walsh,VP and Chief Nursing Officer, Westchester Hospital, Amrita Markan, Director of Nursing Administration; Theresa Ryan, Patient Care Director, Cardiac Cath Lab and Minelly Ayala, Patient Care Director, ER. 

Paul Dunphey, SVP COO NYP Westchester and President Hudson Valley Hospital shared, "Dr. Neira is the definition of a model surgeon, the first to laugh and the first to comfort. We have big plans for Westchester, and they are only possible because of the influence of leaders like him."

Laurie Walsh shared, "Dr. Neira is the embodiment of excellence, with a cheerful and upbeat manner that strengthens his relationships with his team, patients, and their families. He partners with our NPs and nurses, continuously teaching them and always allowing them to 'be heard,' which has built a tremendous level of trust and learning for the entire team of 5 South."

Claudia Scott-Mighty, Patient Care Director, 5 South NYPW shared, "Dr. Neira builds an environment that encourages respect. Even just stopping by to say hello makes a difference. Dr. Neira consistently promotes best practices." 

Nina Michelli, NP who submitted the nomination and works closely with Dr. Neira shared, "Dr. Neira's dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to his patients and team are truly inspiring. This well-deserved recognition is a testament to the impact he makes every day in the lives of those he cares for. We are fortunate to have him as a part of our team."

Dr. Neira shared, "We asked a lot of everyone to build this program, but everyone was onboard, and it shows in what we have achieved.  I also want to thank the leadership of my incredible colleagues Dr. Jeffrey Geller, Dr. Paul McCormick, Dr. Peter Angevine and Dr. E. Sander Connolly."

Dr. Justin Neira has spearheaded the cross-campus surgical spinal oncology program with oncology and radiation oncology colleagues at NYP-Columbia, NYP-Och, and NYP-Westchester. His goal is to provide easily accessible and streamlined multi-specialty expertise to patients with spinal metastases and primary spine and spinal cord tumors. Dr. Neira emphasizes the importance of a team approach, especially given the multidisciplinary nature of these complex cases, where many providers collaborate across neurosurgery, oncology, radiology, physiatry and physical therapy.

In addition to spinal oncology, Dr. Neira treats various surgical spinal issues, including disc herniations in the neck and back, sciatica, spondylosis, cervical myelopathy, and all forms of intradural spinal issues. A proud New Yorker, born and raised in Westchester, Dr. Neira completed his residency at Columbia Neurosurgery prior to joining a full-time faculty position.  In reflecting on this recent award, Dr. Neira shared, "I truly enjoy what I do, I love people and learning their stories. I care so much about our Columbia NYP Westchester Och Spine program being both an enjoyable place to work and the place to receive world-class spine care." 

Congratulations, Dr. Neira!