Renee Walker

Hi, I’m Dr. Renée Walker. I’m a lifelong resident of southwest Missouri—born in Aurora, in the heart of the Ozarks—and I’ve spent my career caring for families right here in the Four States region. Staying close to home wasn’t just a career decision—it was a promise to serve the community that raised me.

I’m a board-certified ENT and facial plastic surgeon, and yes—I’m a surgeon. ENT specialists perform thousands of procedures, and I’ve done just that. From minimally invasive sinus surgery and cleft lip repair to eustachian tube dilation and head and neck tumor removal, surgery is a central part of my practice.

I am fellowship‑trained in pediatric ENT, and the only fellowship‑trained pediatric ENT in the Four States region. This specialized training gives families confidence that their children receive expert, compassionate care close to home.

I care for patients of all ages. While my fellowship in pediatric ENT gave me unique insight into the needs of children, my practice extends across generations—from newborns to seniors—providing compassionate, comprehensive care for every stage of life.

Allergy care is also a major part of what I do. I offer comprehensive testing and personalized treatment plans to help patients manage everything from seasonal allergies to chronic sinusitis. I’ve always stayed on the cutting edge of ENT innovation—adopting balloon sinuplasty, eustachian tube dilation, and coblation tonsillectomy early in their development to give my patients the best outcomes with the least downtime.

My medical journey began at Drury University, followed by graduate work at Mizzou and medical school at Kansas City University. I completed my internship at the Osteopathic Medical Center of Texas in Fort Worth, and my general surgery residency at the same hospital, sponsored by the University of North Texas Health Science Center/Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine. I trained in ENT and facial plastics through Freeman Health System and completed my pediatric fellowship at Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center in Memphis.

I began my private practice at McIntire ENT, where I spent five years before joining Dr. Frank Shagets for one year. In 2004, I founded Joplin ENT. I am also a founding member of the 32nd Street Surgery Center, where I served as CEO and now continue as Medical Director. I hold staff privileges at Freeman Health System, Mercy Hospital–Joplin, and Mercy Specialty Hospital Southeast Kansas in Galena. In addition, I serve as faculty in Freeman’s residency program, training future ENT surgeons.

Mentorship is close to my heart. I’ve worked with college students from our community who’ve gone on to become physicians themselves—many now practicing locally. I’ve also served on community advisory boards, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, because I believe medicine is about more than just clinical care—it’s about showing up for your neighbors.

In 2011, the Joplin tornado destroyed my office and records. It was a devastating moment, but it also reminded me why I do this work: to rebuild, to serve, and to keep showing up for the people who count on me.

Outside of medicine, I’m a proud mother, a licensed private pilot, and someone who finds joy in the water—whether I’m water skiing, scuba diving, or spending a quiet day at one of our local lakes. I play piano, enjoy art, and keep my hands nimble with needlework—skills that reflect both my creativity and my precision in the operating room.

I’ve published research in national journals and presented at scientific conferences, but what matters most to me is the trust my patients place in me every day. If you’re looking for an ENT who combines surgical expertise, allergy care, and a personal touch—I’d be honored to care for you or your loved ones.