Dr. Read is a colon and rectal surgeon whose clinical practice centers on caring for patients with complex gastrointestinal conditions, including colon and rectal cancer, diverticulitis, and inflammatory bowel disease. He joined the JABSOM Department of Surgery in 2025.
Dr. Read earned his bachelor’s degree cum laude in biology from Harvard College and his medical degree with honors (AOA) from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). He completed his general surgery residency and a basic science research fellowship at UCSF, followed by specialty training in colon and rectal surgery at the Lahey Clinic.
A commitment to education has been a constant thread in Dr. Read’s career. He has guided learners at every stage, serving as surgery clerkship director, program director for two colorectal surgery residency programs, and an ACGME Designated Institutional Official (DIO) responsible for graduate medical education across disciplines. His dedication to learners has been honored with 23 teaching and mentorship awards from students and residents.
Dr. Read’s research has centered on advancing understanding of gastrointestinal diseases—particularly rectal cancer and diverticulitis—and improving patient-centered outcomes. He has published more than 125 peer-reviewed manuscripts, delivered over 350 invited lectures at scientific meetings, and served as a visiting professor at more than 35 institutions.
His colleagues have entrusted him with leadership roles in several key organizations that represent his specialty. Dr. Read has served as President of both the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons and the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery, as well as a specialty Governor of the American College of Surgeons. He currently serves as Executive Director of the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery and as a member of the Board of Directors of the American Board of Medical Specialties.
Beyond his professional work, Dr. Read enjoys underwater photography—a passion that makes Hawaiʻi an especially meaningful place to call home.
Thomas E. Read, MD, FACS, FASCRS
Thomas J. Whelan Jr. Professor and Chair, Department of Surgery