Getting to Know You: 14 Questions With Christopher A. Griggs, DO
February 21, 2025
By: Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare
Categories: Healthy Living, Heart & Vascular
Tags: Vascular Surgery
Christopher A. Griggs, DO, joined TMH Physician Partners, Services by Southern Medical Group – Vascular Surgery in 2024. He is a skilled and compassionate vascular surgeon with a background in osteopathy and healthcare leadership.
Dr. Griggs earned his Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degree from Kansas City University, College of Osteopathic Medicine, in Kansas City, Missouri. In addition to his medical degree, he simultaneously completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare Leadership at Rockhurst University. This unique combination of education and leadership skills has helped him navigate the complexities of healthcare with a strong focus on patient outcomes.
Dr. Griggs completed his residency in General Surgery at Cleveland Clinic Hospital in Warrensville Heights, Ohio, which allowed him to hone his surgical skills in a rigorous, world-class environment. He then went on to complete a fellowship in Vascular Surgery at the Deborah Heart and Lung Center in Browns Mills, New Jersey, where he further developed his specialized knowledge and skills in treating conditions of the blood vessels.
Dr. Griggs holds multiple certifications, including the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Vascular Surgery. He is also a Diplomate and Certified Wound Specialist Physician with the American Board of Wound Management, demonstrating his commitment to the highest standards in his field.
To learn more about Dr. Griggs, we sat down with him for a quick Q&A. Here’s what he had to say about his journey to becoming a vascular surgeon and his approach to patient care.
1. Can you share your background and what inspired you to pursue a medical career?
Dr. Griggs: I decided at eight years old that I wanted to become a doctor. I’ve always had a passion for biology and chemistry—subjects that opened up a world of discovery for me. As I grew older, my interest in science only deepened, and I realized that a career in healthcare would combine my love of science with my desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
I've always been drawn to helping others, whether through community service projects like Boy Scouts or working in healthcare settings. In high school and college, I worked as a CNA in nursing homes, and that experience solidified my aspirations to pursue a patient-centered career. Caring for people, even in small ways, proved incredibly rewarding.
2. Why did you choose Vascular Surgery and Wound Care?
Dr. Griggs: During my clinical rotations, I became fascinated by vascular surgery. There’s something precise and dynamic about it—the circulatory system is complex and requires a combination of technical skill, critical thinking and a deep understanding of human anatomy. What really drew me in, however, was the impact vascular surgery has on a patient’s quality of life. As a vascular surgeon, you're not just treating physical problems; you’re addressing conditions that affect mobility and daily functioning. It's a constantly evolving field with new techniques, which keeps me engaged and always learning.
Wound care became a more significant focus for me as my career progressed. Wounds are often a reflection of the body’s overall health, and wound care is its own discipline. It’s not just about healing the skin but also managing underlying vascular or systemic issues that hinder proper healing. Treating chronic wounds requires long-term management, which allows me to build strong relationships with my patients. This ongoing partnership in their healing process gives them comfort and confidence as they regain their health.
3. What is your favorite part of being a vascular surgeon?
Dr. Griggs: The best part of being a vascular surgeon is the relationships I build with my patients. I often meet them during some of the most challenging moments of their lives—whether they’re managing a chronic condition or recovering from a major surgery. The trust they place in me is something I take very seriously. Getting to know them, hearing their stories and guiding them through their treatment is incredibly fulfilling.
4. What is your favorite part of working in wound care?
Dr. Griggs: What I enjoy most about wound care is seeing the tangible progress in my patients’ healing, often tracking that progress over time together. Wound care provides the unique opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients, where we’re not just fixing a problem—we’re walking alongside them as they regain their health and independence.
5. Has your medical philosophy or approach to patient care evolved over the years?
Dr. Griggs: Yes, my approach has evolved significantly. Early in my career, I focused on convincing patients to understand and agree with what I thought was best for them, often explaining things from my own medical perspective. Now, I place more emphasis on patient autonomy. I recognize that every patient has unique values, beliefs and circumstances that influence their decisions. I make sure to provide them with all the information they need to make informed choices, even if that means deciding against a particular treatment. I aim to act as a guide, helping them navigate their options and feel confident in their decisions.
6. Is being a vascular surgeon different than you imagined it would be?
Dr. Griggs: Being a vascular surgeon is different from what I initially imagined. Early on, I envisioned performing large open surgeries like bypasses or endarterectomies—the kind of big incision procedures that are typically associated with the field. However, as medicine has advanced, much of my work now revolves around minimally invasive or percutaneous endovascular procedures. These techniques allow for faster recovery times, smaller incisions and less trauma to the patient, which is incredibly rewarding. I didn’t anticipate how quickly technology would transform the field, but it's been exciting to see how much it’s evolved.
7. Do you have any hobbies? If so, what are they?
Dr. Griggs: I love spending time outdoors and connecting with nature. I enjoy visiting national parks, hiking and whitewater rafting. The best part is sharing these activities with my wife, daughter and ‘grand-dog.’ Being outside is a great way to unwind and bond with my family.
8. What is your favorite movie or television show?
Dr. Griggs: My favorite television show is Yellowstone. When it comes to movies, I enjoy anything with a good mix of action and comedy.
9. What advice would you give young physicians or medical students starting in your specialty?
Dr. Griggs: My biggest piece of advice would be to take the time to truly connect with your patients—they are not just cases or conditions. The relationships you build with them will be among the most rewarding aspects of your career.
10. What's your favorite thing about working at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare?
Dr. Griggs: What I love most about working at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare is the incredible sense of community. From the very first day, I was welcomed with open arms—whether by my colleagues, nurses or support staff. Everyone here makes you feel like a valued part of the team. This collaborative and supportive environment not only helps me provide the best care for my patients but also makes coming to work each day a joy.
11. Where are you from?
Dr. Griggs: I’m from Emporia, Kansas, a small town about an hour south of Topeka.
12. What is your favorite thing about Tallahassee?
Dr. Griggs: What I love most about Tallahassee is the strong sense of community. My family always looks forward to visiting because the city feels so welcoming. We’ve made wonderful friends here, and those relationships make it feel like home. I also appreciate the wide range of activities available, both in the city and nearby. Whether it’s hiking, kayaking or enjoying the parks, there’s always something to do. Tallahassee strikes the perfect balance between city life and access to nature.
13. What is your favorite restaurant in Tallahassee?
Dr. Griggs: My favorite restaurant in town is The Huntsman. My go-to order is the antelope!
14. What is one thing you want your patients to know about you?
Dr. Griggs: I want my patients to know that I genuinely care about them—not just as a diagnosis or a case, but as a person. I will always be transparent and upfront about their treatment options, and together we will find the best solution. Their health and well-being are my top priorities, and I am committed to supporting them every step of the way.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Griggs, call 850-216-0067 or visit us online. Referrals to TMH Physician Partners, Services by Southern Medical Group – Vascular Surgery can be sent to 850-216-0066.
