The Southern Ute Tribal Council, in a special meeting, approved Dr. Ryan Duvall, MD, to serve as the new Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for the Southern Ute Health Center. 

Dr. Duvall is an experienced family medicine physician with over 15 years of experience. A graduate of the University of Louisville School of Medicine in 2009, Dr. Duvall has dedicated   his   career   to   providing   experienced, comprehensive care to families on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation, the local community and beyond. 

“Dr. Duvall has served our Tribe with compassion for over five years,” Chairman Melvin Baker said. “We are confident that in this new role, he will continue to uplift and improve the health of our tribal membership.”  

“Welcoming a physician who already knows our people and their needs, strengthens the foundation of trust that is essential to quality care in Indian Country,” said Executive Officer Lindsay Box. “As Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Duvall’s leadership will guide us in delivering care that is accessible, culturally grounded, and focused on the long-term wellness of our patients.” 

In his new role as Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Duvall will lead the Southern Ute Health Center’s clinical operations and strategic medical initiatives. His key responsibilities include: 

 

• Direct Patient Care: Providing primary and comprehensive medical services to patients. 

• Clinical Oversight: Supervising clinical services to ensure the highest standards of patient care. 

• Strategic Alignment: Aligning medical strategies with the health center’s broader business objectives. 

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring all medical services meet applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards. 

• Collaboration: Working closely with the Chief Nursing Officer to support day-to-day operations and patient care. 

 

Tribal Health Director, Lizette Langefels said, “Dr. Duvall has been providing excellent patient care since 2019 when he first started with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe. Dr. Duvall brings extensive knowledge; he is personable, provides excellent, and compassionate care. It will be an honor to have him lead our provider team. Dr. Duvall is dedicated to improving health for all tribal members.” 

“I am proud of the care we provide at the Southern Ute Health Center, and I am excited that this new role will offer opportunities to both continue and expand that care,” Duvall said.  

His appointment signifies a pivotal advancement in the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s dedication to delivering exceptional, culturally responsive healthcare services.