Meet Dr. Richard Coats, MD, FACS
Board-Certified General and Vascular Surgeon
Professor of Surgery – University of Missouri–Kansas City & Kansas City University
Commander, U.S. Navy Reserve (Medical Corps)
About Dr. Coats
Dr. Richard Coats is a board-certified general and vascular surgeon with extensive expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of arterial and venous disorders. He serves as an Assistant Professor of Surgery at both the University of Missouri–Kansas City and Kansas City University, where he is dedicated to advancing surgical education and mentoring the next generation of physicians.
In addition to his civilian surgical practice, Dr. Coats serves as a Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve Medical Corps, bringing the discipline, leadership, and service ethos of military medicine to his civilian practice. His dual experience in academic, clinical, and military settings informs his commitment to excellence, readiness, and compassionate care.
With a comprehensive approach to vascular health, Dr. Coats emphasizes individualized treatment plans that integrate both open and minimally invasive techniques. His philosophy centers on offering patients the full spectrum of vascular solutions—tailoring care to restore circulation, preserve limb health, and enhance quality of life. He believes that optimal outcomes are achieved through precision, compassion, and the balanced use of cutting-edge technology with sound surgical judgment.
Philosophy of Care
Dr. Coats believes exceptional vascular care begins with a clear understanding of each patient’s goals and concerns. His approach is grounded in communication, transparency, and shared decision-making. Whether providing a minimally invasive intervention or a complex open surgical repair, he emphasizes tailored care plans that prioritize safety, comfort, and long-term health.
Known for his calm, thoughtful presence, Dr. Coats blends deep surgical experience with compassion and thorough preparation—ensuring patients feel supported at every step of their treatment.
Get to Know Dr. Coats
Outside of medicine, Dr. Coats is a devoted husband and father of four. He enjoys staying active, spending time with his family, and contributing to the mission of the U.S. Navy Reserves. His colleagues and patients alike appreciate his integrity, quiet leadership, and unwavering dedication to service—both in the operating room and beyond.
Conditions & Procedures
Dr. Coats provides comprehensive care for a wide range of arterial and venous conditions, offering both minimally invasive and traditional surgical options based on what is safest and most effective for each patient.
- Aortic aneurysms (thoracic and abdominal)
- Carotid artery disease and stroke prevention
- Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
- Endovascular stenting and angioplasty
- Minimally invasive vascular procedures
- Venous insufficiency and chronic venous disease
- Varicose veins and spider vein treatment
- May-Thurner syndrome
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) management
- Endovenous ablation and sclerotherapy
Specific Clinical Interests
- Vascular trauma in civilian and military environments
- Peripheral arterial and venous disease
- Aortic pathology
- Minimally invasive endovascular treatment
- Surgical education and physician training
Education
- University of Missouri–Columbia School of Medicine – Doctor of Medicine
- University of Missouri–Columbia – General Studies (Chemistry, Philosophy, Biology)
- General Surgery Residency – University of Missouri–Columbia Hospital & Clinics
- Vascular Surgery Fellowship – University of Missouri–Columbia
Experience
- Vascular & Interventional Specialist – 2025–present
- Assistant Professor, University of Missouri–Kansas City – 2025–present
- Kansas City Veterans Affairs Hospital – 2024–present
- University Health Truman Medical Center – 2024–present
- SANO Vascular & Vein Surgery – 2023–2025
- Kansas City Vascular & General Surgery – 2017–2023
- Assistant Professor of Surgery, Kansas City University – 2018–present
- Clinical Instructor, Menorah General Surgery Program – 2017–2023
- Southern Illinois Vascular & Vein Surgery / Memorial Hospital – 2011–2017
- Columbia Surgical Associates – 2004–2011
- Assistant Professor of Vascular Surgery, University of Missouri – 2002–2011
Military Service
- Commander, U.S. Navy Reserves – 2020–present
Leadership & Committee Roles
Dr. Coats has held numerous leadership positions, including:
- Chairman of Surgery – Lee’s Summit Medical Center
- Chairman, Clinical Competency Committee – HCA Residency Program
- Program Evaluation Committee – HCA Residency Program
- Secretary, Department of Surgery – Memorial Hospital
- Ethics Committee leadership – Boone Hospital and University of Missouri
- Surgical Services and Information Technology committees
Teaching & Instructor Roles
- Clinical instructor for physician training with Boston Scientific, Cook Medical, Gore Medical, and Angiodynamics
- Instructor for surgical skills labs, trauma training, and residency evaluation
- More than 20 industry and professional training courses led
Honors & Awards
- Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society
- Vascular Surgery Award for Excellence
- Award of Merit for Outstanding General Surgery Resident
- Multiple top-performer awards on General Surgery In-Service Exams
Research & Publications
Dr. Coats has authored peer-reviewed research in vascular surgery, trauma, pediatric surgery, and hemodialysis-related vascular complications, including publications in Journal of Vascular Surgery, Journal of Pediatric Surgery, Journal of Surgical Research, Surgery, and Endovascular Today.
A full list is available upon request.
Presentations
Dr. Coats has presented extensively at regional, national, and military conferences, including the Midwest Vascular Society, OPMED Navy Symposium, and multiple Grand Rounds and CME events. Topics range from vascular trauma to endovascular therapy and complex arterial disease.
Poster Presentation
- EKOS treatment for mesenteric artery embolus – Vascular Annual Meeting (2016)
Licensure
- Missouri – Active
- Kansas – Active
Certifications
- American Board of Surgery – General Surgery (Recertified 2024)
- American Board of Surgery – Vascular Surgery (Recertified 2016)
Professional Memberships
- Society for Vascular Surgery
- Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery
- Midwest Vascular Surgery Society
- Fellow, American College of Surgeons
