WVU Medicine Urologist John Barnard MD Receives Center of Excellence Designation

John Barnard, MD, WVU Medicine urologist, has been designated as a Center of Excellence for the AMS 700™ Inflatable Penile Prosthesis (IPP) – a long-term treatment option for patients with erectile dysfunction (ED).

ED is a common condition that is estimated to affect more than half of men between 40 and 70 years old to some degree. ED can be brought on by several physical or psychological causes, which result in the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sex. This can limit intimacy, affect self-esteem, and impact relationships.

WVU Medicine urologists provide individualized treatment options for reconstruction of the genitourinary system, the organs of the reproductive system, and the urinary system. Using the most up-to-date minimally invasive and open surgical techniques, they care for patients who have experienced trauma to the urinary tract, suffer from obstructive diseases of the urinary tract, and have effects from the treatment of prostate cancer, bladder cancer, and other malignancies.

Among the treatments they offer is the AMS 700, manufactured by Boston Scientific, which is designed to deliver a natural look and feel and can help patients resume sexual intimacy with their partners. In one study evaluating the AMS 700, 95 percent of patients and 90 percent of partners reported satisfaction with sexual intercourse.

WVU Medicine Urology provides treatment across the entire spectrum of urologic diseases for adult and pediatric patients. Established in 1973, the department provides surgical expertise and excellence in patient care so that no patient has to leave West Virginia to receive the highest quality urologic care.

The Urology team collaborates with experts across all specialties to provide the best outcome for each patient. They work with local physicians to allow patients to transition their care closer to home and utilize telemedicine visits, when appropriate, to reduce the need for patients to travel.

The Center of Excellence designation is the latest for WVU Medicine Urology, which, as part of J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, was nationally recognized as High Performing by U.S. News & World Report in July 2024.

The designation recognizes achievement of program requirements, including experience with implanting the AMS 700 and commitment to continuously educating patients and the community about ED and available treatment options.

“Being designated as an AMS 700 Center of Excellence is an important recognition for us and further supports our efforts to deliver treatment options for ED patients in West Virginia and the surrounding area,” Dr. Barnard said.

“Our urologists have compassion and integrity and are committed to doing what is medically best for our patients and their families. We will spend time with you, listen to your concerns, and develop a treatment plan to fit your needs.”