Joseph Mendes

Joseph received his undergraduate degree in Respiratory Therapy from the University of Hartford and his Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from Pacific University in Oregon. He began his career at Yale New Haven in 2002 as surgical physician assistant with the Department of Surgery, Section of Otolaryngology. Since 2009 he has been in progressive clinical leadership roles within the Department of Surgery and Yale New Haven Hospital, most recently serving as the Director of Surgical Services and Trauma Programs.

In December of 2019, Joseph was promoted to Executive Director of Clinical Program Development for the newly created Digestive Health Service Line. Joseph is providing operational and strategic leadership for the administration and business development of the Digestive Health service for Yale New Haven Health in partnership with Yale Medicine. Joseph works closely with the physician leaders and administrators from Digestive Diseases, Colon and Rectal Surgery, Bariatrics and General Surgery. He oversee program development & strategic planning for 24+ clinical programs within the service line.

Among some of Joseph’s notable past accomplishments include creating a comprehensive & nationally recognized Head and Neck cancer screening program, developing an opioid diversion program for clinicians in New Haven, and developing a successful advanced practice infrastructure & employment strategy for the health system. Joseph has served as the Vice President for the Connecticut Head and Neck Cancer Alliance and has affiliation with community organizations and national organizations .

He serves as a mentor to many and teaches at the Yale Physician Associate Program. In additional to lecturing locally he has spoken at various conferences and serves as resource for advance practice leaders, committees and organizations nationally.