Orthopaedic Surgery Physician Assistant
Raul Villalobos, DSc, MPAS, PA-C, is an experienced Orthopaedic Surgery Physician Assistant with over 25 years of healthcare experience and more than a decade dedicated specifically to orthopedic medicine.
Raul grew up in El Paso and proudly considers himself an El Pasoan. He understands the culture, values, and work ethic of this community because he was raised here. That local perspective — combined with decades of military service and advanced orthopedic training — allows him to connect deeply with the patients and families he serves.
Dr. Fitzpatrick and Raul first met while serving together at Madigan Army Medical Center in the U.S. Army medical system. Over the years, they developed a strong professional relationship built on shared standards of excellence, discipline, and patient-centered care. After working together in the military, Dr. Fitzpatrick knew Raul’s integrity, clinical skill, and commitment to patients firsthand — which made him the natural choice to join Southwest Shoulder Orthopedics.
Raul is a retired U.S. Army military officer and combat veteran, having served honorably for 20 years on active duty, including two combat deployments. In recognition of his service and contributions to Army Medicine, he was inducted into the Order of Military Medical Merit (O2M3) in 2021.
He earned his Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska Medical Center through the Interservice Physician Assistant Program in 2008. He later completed an Orthopedic Fellowship at William Beaumont Army Medical Center and UMC/Texas Tech in El Paso. In 2014, he earned his Doctor of Science degree from Baylor University following fellowship completion.
Throughout his military career, Raul completed advanced medical training including Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS), Advanced Burn Life Support (ABLS), Tactical Combat Medical training, and executive leadership coursework culminating in completion of the Command and General Staff College.
Raul is fluent in Spanish and is deeply committed to serving the diverse El Paso community. His clinical interests include musculoskeletal care, ultrasound-guided procedures, and orthobiologics, with advanced training in these areas.
His personal philosophy centers around the Latin phrase “Cura te ipsum” — “Take care of yourself.” He believes the best outcomes happen when providers and patients work together with shared responsibility and trust.
Outside of medicine, Raul enjoys classic cars, fishing, camping, and traveling. He and his wife of 23 years operate a ranch in Clint, Texas.
Raul brings military-honed discipline, advanced orthopedic training, and a deep understanding of the El Paso community to every patient interaction. He is proud to serve his hometown alongside Dr. Fitzpatrick at Southwest Shoulder Orthopedics.