About

About Dr. James J. Blake

Dr. James J. Blake is an accomplished physician based in Richmond, Kentucky, who has built an impressive career in emergency medicine. Born on February 8, 1967, in Ontario, Canada, Dr. Blake has dedicated his life to the medical field, focusing on emergency care. His journey began with a solid educational foundation and has evolved into a distinguished professional trajectory characterized by various leadership roles and a commitment to public service.

Foundations of His Long-Life Passion in Emergency Medicine

Dr. Blake’s early years were marked by a keen interest in the sciences. He pursued his undergraduate education at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, where he earned a Bachelor of Science from 1985 to 1989. During his time at Ohio University, Dr. Blake demonstrated a strong commitment to helping others, volunteering as a tutor in chemistry and physics from 1987 to 1989. Additionally, he volunteered in the Orthopedics department from 1988 to 1989, showcasing his dedication to the medical field from a young age.

Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. James Blake attended the Ohio University School of Osteopathic Medicine from 1989 to 1991. His passion for medicine continued to grow, leading him to pursue a Doctor of Medicine degree at Hahnemann University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. During his time at Hahnemann University, Dr. Blake tutored minority undergraduate students in anatomy and physiology from 1991 to 1994.

Laying the Groundwork for Success

Dr. Blake’s medical training took him to some of the country’s most prestigious institutions. From 1994 to 1996, he did his ENT and general surgery internship at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. This experience provided him with a broad understanding of surgical procedures and patient care.

Following his internship, Dr. Blake pursued residency training in emergency medicine at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky, from July 1996 to 1999. During his residency, he served as Chief Resident, further honing his leadership skills and expertise in emergency medicine.

After completing his residency, Dr. James Blake began his professional career as an emergency department physician with Keightly and Parsley P.S.C., where he worked from 1999 to 2011. His tenure at Keightly and Parsley was marked by his dedication to providing high-quality emergency care to patients in critical situations.

In 2011, he joined Team Health, serving in the Department of Emergency Medicine at Kentucky One Hospitals. His work with Team Health further solidified his reputation as a skilled and compassionate emergency medicine physician.

Leading the Charge in Healthcare: Roles and Achievements

Dr. Blake’s career reached new heights when he took on various leadership roles at James B. Haggin Memorial Hospital from 2018 to 2020. As the Medical Director, he oversaw several critical programs, including the ER Trauma unit, the Stroke Unit, and the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program. His leadership and expertise were instrumental in improving patient outcomes and ensuring the highest standards of care in these specialized areas.

Throughout his career, Dr. Blake has been committed to professional development and continuous learning. He achieved certification from the American Board of Emergency Medicine (ABEM) in 2004 and maintains it to the present day. This certification underscores his dedication to staying current with advancements in emergency medicine and providing the best possible care to his patients.

On the Front Lines of Emergency Medicine

Dr. Blake’s career is distinguished by his unwavering commitment to advancing emergency medicine. He has been a dedicated physician for the U.S. Boxing Program since 1999, providing medical support for national and international events.

In his role at ST. Joseph Hospital Berea, located at 305 Estill ST., Berea, KY, Dr. Blake provided exceptional patient care. His contributions extended beyond clinical practice; he actively mentored and educated the next generation of emergency physicians, ensuring that his knowledge and experience benefit the broader medical community.

The Basics of Emergency Medicine

Emergency medicine is a medical specialty focused on immediately diagnosing and treating acute illnesses and injuries. Physicians in this field, like Dr. James J. Blake, work in emergency departments and care for patients with various conditions, from minor injuries to life-threatening emergencies. Emergency medicine aims to stabilize patients, provide immediate treatments, and determine the best course of action for further care.

One key aspect of emergency medicine is the ability to quickly assess and prioritize patients based on the severity of their conditions. This process, known as triage, ensures that patients with the most critical needs receive immediate attention. Emergency medicine physicians must be skilled in a variety of procedures, such as resuscitations, intubation, wound care, and fracture management.

More Than Just a White Coat; Personal Life

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. James Blake is a man of diverse interests and accomplishments. He deeply appreciates sports and has been actively involved in national and international cycling events from 1984 to 1988. This passion for cycling reflects his dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and competitive spirit.