In search of better balance for both patients and physicians, Dr. Matt Daggett is rethinking health care by personalizing treatment, encouraging mentorship and providing a truly global perspective
In a world where health care often feels like a tangled web of bureaucracy, KCU College of Osteopathic Medicine alumnus Matthew Daggett, DO, is lighting the way forward. As the founder and president of Sano Speciality Care, a practice he founded to enhance musculoskeletal health through individualized care, Daggett embraces the challenges and opportunities in modern medicine.
Rethinking patient-centered care
The health care system is at a crossroads, burdened by rising physician burnout rates and a disconnect between patient needs and institutional practices. Daggett articulates this reality with conviction: “We are at a tipping point. If we don’t prioritize the patient-physician relationship, we risk losing the essence of what health care should be.” For him, this mission is deeply personal; he believes health care must be rooted in compassion, allowing patients to feel heard and valued while enabling physicians to practice without administrative constraints.
Bridging education and practice
Having grown up in Kansas City and completed his medical education at KCU, Daggett’s insights are simultaneously local and broad. His strong ties to KCU are evident through the partnership that has flourished between Sano and the University over the past eight years. Since 2017, KCU students have gained hands-on experience through monthly rotations with Sano surgeons, bridging education and real-world application. In 2024, the Sano-KCU collaboration has taken a new step forward with the launch of a fellowship program, designed to catapult emerging physicians into the forefront of global sports medicine. This innovative program, forged through a partnership with the SANTI group, blends mentorship, clinical experience and exposure to diverse perspectives, culminating in a two-month overseas rotation in Europe.
Daggett is also dedicated to creating a healthier Kansas City, emphasizing that understanding patients’ fears and concerns is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes. “I take the time to listen to my patients,” he said. As he observes colleagues and peers express dissatisfaction with their roles, he recognizes, “The system is neglecting the very people who are essential to its success.” Advocating for a return to a more patient-centered model of health care, he aims to rekindle the passion that initially drew many into the medical field.
Learning beyond borders
Daggett's on-going commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by how he embraces global medical practices. After completing a sports medicine fellowship at the American Sports Medicine Institute with Larry Lemak, MD, he traveled to Lyon, France, for a shoulder fellowship with renowned experts like Gilles Walch, MD, and Lionel Neyton, MD. “Innovations often find their roots in Europe before making their way here,” he said. By fostering international collaboration, Daggett equips himself and fellow physicians with a diverse toolkit to tackle complex medical challenges. This approach enhances his practice and ensures that his patients receive advanced care.
Daggett’s drive for innovation is validated through research and outcomes, demonstrating that new techniques lead to better patient results. He emphasizes that exposure to various methodologies broadens a physician’s perspective: “Every approach to treatment has something to teach us. The key is being open to learning and adapting.” By integrating insights from his international experiences into his practice, he creates a model that encourages continuous growth.
In today’s health care environment, staying informed about global best practices is crucial. “The medical field is constantly evolving, and so must we,” Daggett said. “This allows us to offer our patients the most effective treatments.”
Fueling tomorrow's leaders
Mentorship is a cornerstone of Daggett’s philosophy. He believes that the guidance and support of experienced physicians are vital for shaping future leaders. Reflecting on his own journey, he shares, “I had mentors who taught me about medicine, leadership and compassion. It’s my duty to pay that forward.” His commitment extends beyond professional development; he aims to cultivate a culture of care within the medical community.
Daggett actively fosters relationships with medical students and young physicians, guiding them through the complexities of their training. “Mentorship is about more than just sharing knowledge; it’s about building confidence and resilience,” he says. He envisions a health care landscape where collaboration and shared learning improve outcomes for both patients and providers.
Navigating life and medicine
In a profession known for its demanding nature, Daggett acknowledges the challenge of achieving a healthy work-life balance. “Balance is a moving target,” he admits. He encourages young physicians to define their values early in their careers to navigate the pressures of the profession. “Understanding your priorities helps you maintain your well-being,” he said.
Outside of his work at Sano, Daggett cherishes family life. He finds joy in spending time with his wife and children, believing these moments are essential for maintaining balance. “I love my family, my hometown and my sports teams,” he said.
Daggett embodies the spirit of transformation in health care. His commitment to patient-centered care, global collaboration and mentorship positions him as a thought leader ready to tackle systemic challenges. As he champions a comprehensive approach that values both patients and physicians, he is not just envisioning a better future — he is actively creating it.
Through Sano, he continues to innovate and validate techniques through research and outcomes, reinforcing the belief that individualized care can significantly impact the Kansas City community. His connection to KCU enriches his practice and enhances the educational experiences of future health care professionals. In doing so, he inspires a new generation to carry the torch of compassion and innovation, ensuring that the heart of medicine remains focused on those it serves.
As Daggett reflects on his journey, he remains optimistic about the future of health care. “We have the opportunity to redefine what it means to be a physician,” he said. “By focusing on compassion, collaboration and continuous learning, we can truly make a difference in our patients’ lives.”
(0) Comments