Celebrating excellence: Esteemed alumnus of Kansas City University receives prestigious recognition

The American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians of California (ACOFP-CA) announced Steven Barag, DO, FACOFP, as a recipient of the esteemed 2024 ACOFP Master Preceptor Award during the ACOFP 2024 Annual Convention and Scientific Seminars. This accolade recognizes Dr. Barag's commitment to excellence in the training, education and mentoring of medical students, family nurse practitioner students and physician assistant students in family medicine.

Dr. Barag, a Kansas City University (KCU) College of Osteopathic Medicine graduate from the Class of 1973, has devoted five decades to family medicine. His dedication to the education and mentorship of future osteopathic physicians has earned him this prestigious award, marking him as a two-time recipient, following his earlier recognition in 2022. The Master Preceptor Award honors practicing physicians who play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of medical professionals.

He attributes much of the success he has achieved in his 50-year career to his foundational education at Kansas City University.

"My experience at KCU was incredibly welcoming and supportive," Dr. Barag said. "The institution valued diversity and mutual respect, which was instrumental in shaping my professional and personal growth."

As the medical director of Aureus Medical Group and the principal investigator at Rancho Cucamonga Clinical Research in California, Dr. Barag has conducted over 75 clinical trials, demonstrating his passion for innovation and excellence in patient care. His work in these roles has significantly contributed to advancing medical research and improving treatment options for patients.

In addition to his clinical endeavors, Dr. Barag serves as a clinical professor of Family Medicine at Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Touro University, and California Health Sciences University. His influence extends well beyond caring for patients, including serving as the chief of staff on the board of trustees at San Antonio Regional Hospital in Upland, California.

Dr. Barag’s professional achievements are matched by his long-time philanthropic support of KCU. For more than two decades, he has been a member of the Gold Society, which recognizes donors who have contributed consistently over three years. In addition, his involvement in the Conley Society, named in honor of KCU’s first president, George J.

Conley, DO, highlights his commitment to advancing the mission and vision of KCU through generous contributions and active participation.

KCU Giving Societies play an integral role in supporting the university’s endeavors in education, research and community service. Dr. Barag’s commitment to KCU exemplifies the spirit of giving back that the University instills in its alumni.

Dr. Barag has also held notable roles within the ACOFP California chapter, including past president, treasurer, and current convention chair. His leadership within this organization has helped shape policies and programs that benefit the osteopathic community at large.

Beyond his educational and philanthropic efforts, Dr. Barag has made significant strides in diabetes treatment. He is regarded as a notable figure in the world of Ozempic and Wegovy, two groundbreaking GLP1 medications used to manage diabetes and obesity.

Dr. Barag participated in the original clinical trials of GLP1s twelve years ago, with a trocar osmotic pump device placed in the abdominal fat pad for three months. The intent was for diabetic control, but the weight loss in patients was most impressive, he said. His work in this area has contributed to the advancement of treatment options, improving the quality of life for countless patients.

He emphasized the rigorous and comprehensive nature of his training at KCU, which prepared him for the demands of a career in medicine. "They ingrained in me the gravity of the profession, ensuring we understood that a 100 percent commitment was necessary. This mindset has stayed with me throughout my career," he said.

He continues to contribute to the field, inspired by his students and driven by a dedication to improving health care for underserved populations.

Dr. Barag’s story not only celebrates past successes, but also inspires the next generation of osteopathic physicians.