Johan Latorre, M.D., MS, assistant professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), is the junior faculty winner of the Dean’s Excellence Award for Faculty in Access & Engagement by UAB Heersink School of Medicine.

Latorre is highly engaged and proactive in the service of patients who have physical, cultural, and language barriers. As a lead physician for adaptive sports at UAB, he provides sports and musculoskeletal medical care for patients at Spain Rehabilitation Center, UAB Hospital Highlands, Medical West, and the Lakeshore Foundation. Since joining UAB, he has significantly advanced the care of adapted athletes and athletes with disabilities.

His involvement as a team physician is evident on both a local and national level. He served as team physician to the 2024 paralympic silver medalists - Team USA Wheelchair Rugby and continues to support Bessemer City High School and UAB men’s and women’s tennis teams.

Furthermore, he has successfully connected with the traditionally underserved Hispanic population in the Birmingham metropolitan area through community involvement. His passion for education focuses on Spanish speaking patients to ensure they are knowledgeable on adaptive sports access and care through UAB. He also mentors Hispanic students at UAB and provides shadowing experiences.

Latorre is board certified by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation with a certificate of added qualification in Sports Medicine. He serves on the public policy and advocacy committee for the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine and on the American Board of PM&R as an item writer for the Longitudinal Assessment program. He also chairs the adaptive sports community in the American Academy of PM&R.

Latorre received his medical degree from Penn State University College of Medicine. He earned a Master of Science degree in physiology and biophysics from Georgetown University and a Bachelor of Science degree in biological anthropology and anatomy, and psychology from Duke University

“Johan’s work reminds us of what’s possible when compassion meets purpose. His advocacy, mentorship, and care are opening doors for so many—both on and off the field. He is a true force for good,” said Robert Brunner, M.D., vice chair of development in the Department of PM&R.