John A. Johnson, MD, MBA, FACP, FACHE, is a dedicated physician leader whose career bridges clinical excellence, military service, and health care leadership. A board-certified internist, Dr. Johnson brings a lifetime of commitment to advancing patient care, most recently through his appointment to the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) Stakeholder Council.
A Calling Rooted in Compassion
Growing up in inner city New Jersey, Dr. Johnson’s dream of becoming a physician began in childhood. “No one in my family was a physician,” he recalls, “but many of my family members struggled with chronic illnesses like diabetes and kidney disease. I remember wondering whether they understood their treatments or knew the right questions to ask their doctors.” That early concern for his loved ones sparked a lifelong passion. By sixth grade, Dr. Johnson knew medicine was his calling.
He pursued that dream with vigor, earning his medical degree from Rutgers University New Jersey Medical School and completing his residency in internal medicine at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta. He later deepened his leadership and health care expertise by earning a Master of Business Administration from Emory’s Goizueta Business School, with a focus on health care management.
Clinical Excellence Meets Service
For more than 20 years, Dr. Johnson had a thriving internal medicine practice in Douglasville, Georgia, treating patients with both acute and chronic conditions, including diabetes. “Internal medicine is fascinating and dynamic—it allows for intellectual curiosity and the development of deep relationships with patients and their families,” he says. “You get to be a partner, a detective, and an educator.”
Dr. Johnson has proudly served 28 years in the United States Army Reserves, rising to the rank of Colonel and Battalion Commander in the Medical Corps. His military service speaks to his enduring dedication to public service and medical readiness, balancing leadership roles with compassionate patient care.
Board Certification: A Mark of Trust
As a staunch advocate for board certification, Dr. Johnson believes it is essential for maintaining public trust and clinical excellence. “Board certification is the ‘true north’ of a physician’s academic and professional acumen. It reflects deep clinical expertise and a commitment to ongoing learning. I have been board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine for 25 years, and I have seen firsthand the difference it makes in patient outcomes.”
In his current role as Chief Medical Officer for the nonprofit member association G.E.H.A (Government Employees Health Association, Inc.), Dr. Johnson applies this belief system-wide. “At G.E.H.A, we meet our 2 million members—federal employees, retirees, military retirees and their families—where they are, ensuring that their health care needs are met, and that they have access to quality care from board certified physicians.”
A Voice for Physicians and Patients
Dr. Johnson’s leadership extends beyond clinical care. In 2023–2024, he served as president of the Medical Association of Atlanta and is a proud graduate of the Georgia Physicians Leadership Academy, where he honed his skills in advocacy, strategy, and health care transformation.
In 2024, Dr. Johnson was elected to the ABMS Stakeholder Council, an advisory body that provides strategic recommendations to the ABMS Board of Directors. The Council represents a diverse range of voices, including practicing physicians, patients, and credentialing professionals. Its work ensures that board certification and continuing certification remain relevant, rigorous and responsive to the needs of those delivering and receiving care.
Dr. Johnson’s enthusiasm for this role is evident: “Being part of the ABMS Stakeholder Council gives me the opportunity to represent a variety of constituent voices, including patients,” said Dr. Johnson. “I am proud that I get to help advocate for the needs of the public and shape policy that directly impacts how care is delivered in this country.”
He particularly values the Council’s focus on collaboration. “I have been able to connect with colleagues from across specialties, attend conferences and even join a committee on new certification standards. It is exciting to see how we can leverage board certification to support evidence-based, patient-centered care.”
Across all of Dr. Johnson’s roles, one theme remains constant: quality patient care. “Being a physician is more than a job—it is a privilege. Whether I am in the exam room, serving in uniform, or helping shape policy at the national level, my goal is always to be a partner to patients and a champion for high-quality care.”
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