John Meehan, MD, FACS, BSEE, stands as a distinguished figure in pediatric surgery, renowned for his expertise and pioneering work in minimally invasive and robotic techniques. Board-certified in pediatric general and thoracic surgery, Dr. Meehan serves as the Co-Director of Robotic Surgery at Seattle Children’s Hospital, a testament to his leadership in the field. Meehan John is globally recognized for his contributions to surgical innovation and education.
Dr. Meehan’s global influence is significant. He is celebrated as a world-renowned expert in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and is acclaimed for spearheading the development and implementation of robotic general surgery for pediatric patients. His commitment to advancing surgical practices extends beyond the operating room, as he dedicates himself to educating other surgeons worldwide. Dr. Meehan has shared his extensive knowledge and skills through teaching MIS and robotic surgery in numerous countries. His expertise is highly sought after, evidenced by invitations to speak at national and international societies and serve as a visiting professor across the globe.
Beyond his clinical and educational achievements, Dr. Meehan is an active executive leader within several international pediatric surgery organizations and minimally invasive surgical societies. Currently, he holds the esteemed position of Scientific Program Chair for the Pacific Association of Pediatric Surgeons and contributes to the Development committee for the International Pediatric Endoscopic Group. These roles highlight his commitment to shaping the future of pediatric surgery on a global scale.
Dr. Meehan’s journey to medicine is uniquely rooted in engineering. He earned his undergraduate degree in electrical engineering from Washington University in St. Louis and contributed his skills to McDonnell-Douglas (now Boeing), working on fighter jet projects. This engineering background provides a unique perspective to his surgical innovation. He later transitioned to medicine, earning his medical degree from the University of Iowa. His post-graduate training includes a fellowship in trauma and critical care at Children’s Mercy – Kansas City, and a pediatric surgery fellowship at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
Adding a personal dimension to his professional life, John Meehan has been deeply involved in professional cycling for two decades. He founded the Jingle Cross Cyclocross Festival in Iowa City, Iowa, an event he continues to direct, with all proceeds benefiting children’s charities. Jingle Cross has grown to become the largest event of its kind in North America and hosted the UCI Cyclo-Cross World Cup from 2016 to 2019, bringing world-class cycling to Iowa. Dr. Meehan is married and enjoys family life with his two children, alongside their Australian Shepherds, Koda and Midna, and a lively Indian Ring-necked parakeet named Mango.
Education and Training
- University of Iowa, Medical Doctorate (MD), 1993
- University of Missouri, Kansas City, Fellowship, Pediatric Surgery Critical Care
- University of Alabama, Birmingham, Fellowship, General Surgery
- University of Alabama, Birmingham, Internship, General Surgery
- University of Alabama, Birmingham, Residency, General Surgery
- Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, Fellowship, Pediatric Surgery
Board Certifications
- Pediatric Surgery, American Board of Surgery, 2004
- Surgery, American Board of Surgery, 2000
- Surgical Critical Care, American Board of Surgery, 2000
