Dr. Joel Durinka

General Surgery

Dr. Joel Durinka, MD, is a physician with extensive training and a diverse background spanning general surgery, family medicine, and surgical critical care. With more than a decade of clinical, academic, and research experience, Dr. Durinka has cultivated a strong foundation in patient-centered care, complex surgical procedures, and medical education.
After graduating in the top 5% of his class at St. George’s University School of Medicine, Dr. Durinka went on to complete residencies in both Family Medicine and General Surgery at the University at Buffalo. He is currently advancing his expertise through a fellowship in Surgical Critical Care at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia.
Dr. Durinka’s medical journey has also included a research fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania and surgical training at Albert Einstein Medical Center, giving him a well-rounded and academically rich perspective on modern healthcare delivery. He is board certified in Family Medicine and board eligible in both General Surgery and Surgical Critical Care.
Outside of clinical practice, Dr. Durinka is passionate about surgical education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and improving patient outcomes through evidence-based medicine. He remains active in academic circles, regularly participating in research, presentations, and professional development. Personally, he enjoys long-distance running, classical piano, and is a committed advocate for animal rescue initiatives.

More About Dr. Joel Durinka.

  • Education

    • Doctor of Medicine, St. George’s University School of Medicine – Top 5% of class (Iota Epsilon Alpha Honors Society)
    • Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Canisius College – Magna Cum Laude
    • Ignatian Scholar, Canisius High School, Buffalo, NY – Top 10% of class

    Experience

    • Fellow, Surgical Critical Care, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA (2023–2024)
    • Resident, General Surgery, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY (2018–2023)
    • Resident, Family Medicine, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY (2015–2018)
    • Research Fellow, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA (2011–2015)
    • Resident, General Surgery, Albert Einstein Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA (2010–2011)
  • Expertise

    • General Surgery Procedures
    • Surgical Critical Care and Trauma
    • Family Medicine and Primary Care
    • Medical Research and Clinical Education
    • Acute Care and Postoperative Management
    • Advanced Certifications in Life Support and Trauma Care (ATLS, ABLS, ACLS, BLS)

    Hobbies and Interests

    • Competitive Running and Marathon Training (Holds high school records for mile and two-mile)
    • Piano Performance and Classical Music
    • Volunteering with NY State Weimaraner Rescue
    • Dedicated Buffalo Bills Fan
    • Science Education and Mentorship

Connect with Dr. Joel Durinka

This website is a non-commercial, informational resource curated by Dr. Joel Durinka to promote understanding of general surgery and related medical disciplines. The content presented reflects Dr. Durinka’s academic training, professional experiences, and personal interests in medicine and education.

Hours

Monday - Friday: 9:00-5:30

We are here

Buffalo, NY