Orthopaedic Surgery Physician Assistant
Raul Villalobos, DSc, MPAS, PA-C, is an experienced Orthopaedic Surgery Physician Assistant with more than 25 years in healthcare and over a decade dedicated specifically to orthopedic medicine. A retired U.S. Army officer and combat veteran, he brings military-honed discipline, advanced orthopedic training, and deep community roots to every patient interaction.
Born in Jalisco Mexico, and raised in El Paso, Raul proudly considers himself an El Pasoan. He understands the culture, values, and work ethic of this community because he was shaped by it. That local perspective — combined with two decades of military service — allows him to connect meaningfully with the patients and families he serves.
Dr. Kelly Fitzpatrick and Raul first met while serving together at Madigan Army Medical Center within the U.S. Army medical system. Over time, they developed a professional partnership grounded in shared standards of excellence, accountability, and patient-centered care. Having worked side by side in military medicine, Dr. Fitzpatrick knew Raul’s integrity, clinical judgment, and commitment firsthand — making him a natural addition to Southwest Shoulder & Orthopaedics.
Military Service & Advanced Training
Raul served honorably for 20 years on active duty in the United States Army, including two combat deployments. In recognition of his leadership 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. He later completed advanced Orthopedic Fellowship training 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 career, Raul completed advanced medical and leadership training including:
- Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS)
- Advanced Burn Life Support (ABLS)
- Tactical Combat Medical training
- Command and General Staff College
Clinical Expertise
Raul’s clinical interests include comprehensive musculoskeletal care, ultrasound-guided procedures, fracture management, and orthobiologic treatments. He works closely with Dr. Fitzpatrick to ensure continuity of care and thoughtful treatment planning for both surgical and non-surgical patients.
Fluent in Spanish, Raul is deeply committed to serving the diverse El Paso community with clarity, compassion, and respect.
Philosophy
Raul’s personal philosophy centers on the Latin phrase “Cura te ipsum” — “Take care of yourself.” He believes the best outcomes occur when providers and patients work together in partnership, with shared responsibility and trust.
His approach reflects the values instilled through military service: preparation, discipline, and unwavering commitment to those he serves.
Outside of medicine, Raul enjoys classic cars, fishing, camping, and traveling. He and his wife of 23 years operate a ranch in Clint, Texas and remain deeply connected to the community they call home.