
Highlights
Languages
- Spanish
- English
About David A. Kooby
Emory Affiliation
Emory Clinic - School of Medicine Faculty
Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University
Emory Healthcare Network
Emory Physician Group Practice
Academic Title
Professor
Chief of Staff, Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital and Chief of Emory Surgery, Northern Arc
Year Started Practicing
2003
About the Provider
Dr. Kooby is a Professor of Surgery in the Division of Surgical Oncology and Chief of Emory Surgery in the Northern Arc. He serves as the Chief of Staff and as the Chair of the Board of Directors for Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital. He is the Senior Associate Dean of Faculty Affairs for the Emory University School of Medicine.
Dr. Kooby is an international leader in surgery of the pancreas, liver and biliary system, with an emphasis on minimally invasive and robotic surgical approaches. He also performs high volume gastric and esophageal surgery, among other solid tumor operations. Dr. Kooby co-chaired the first International Conference on Minimally Invasive Pancreatic Resection in Sao Paulo, Brazil in 2016, and is frequently invited around the World to lecture on this topic. He served as the Scientific Program Chair of the Americas Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association in 2019, for the largest society of liver and pancreas surgeons in the Americas. He is a member of the American Joint Commission on Cancer for updating of the staging of hepatobiliary and pancreatic malignancies.
Dr. Kooby's research focuses on multi-center, collaborative clinical outcomes studies pertaining to gastrointestinal malignancies. He co-founded the Central Pancreas Consortium, an active multi-institutional group for studying pancreatic tumors and pancreatic surgery, with Emory taking the lead on several high-impact studies. In addition to publishing numerous journal articles and book chapters, he co-edited the 2015 edition of Gastrointestinal Malignancies: New Innovative Diagnostics and Treatment and co-authored the 2007 edition of A Clinician's Guide to Nuclear Oncology.
Professional Memberships
- American College of Surgeons
- Americas Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association
- American Surgical Association
- International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association
- Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract
- Society of Surgical Oncology
- Southern Surgical Association
- Western Surgical Association
Interpretive Services
Awards
- Burson Award for Clinical and Admirative Service, Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital, 2024
- Elected to the Editorial Board of the Annals of Surgery, 2020
- Elected Scientific Program Chair of the Americas Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association, 2019
- Elected Scientific Co-Chair of the International State of the Art Conference on Minimally Invasive Pancreatic Resection, Sao Paulo, Brazil, 2016
- Inducted into the Woodruff Leadership Academy, 2015
- Celebration of Faculty Excellence Award, Emory University School of Medicine, October 22, 2014, Atlanta, GA
- Inducted into the Physician's Executive Program, Emory, 2013
- Ann & Paul Hastings Scholar for Excellence in Surgical Oncology and Patient Care, Winship Cancer Institute, April 12, 2012, Atlanta, GA
- Faculty election to Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society, February 2008, Atlanta, GA
- Honored Clinical Professor, Emory University School of Medicine, Class of 2007, May 2007, Atlanta, GA
- Joseph and Bonnie Graves Award for Excellence in Clinical Teaching, Vanderbilt University Department of Surgery, June 2001, Nashville, TN
- Vanderbilt University Student Curriculum Committee Residents’ Teaching Award, June 2001, Nashville, TN
Academic Profile
Winship Cancer Institute Profile
Locations
- Winship Cancer Institute at Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital
- 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, Erb Bldg, Fl 1, Ste 150, Atlanta, GA 30342
- Get Directions
- phone: 404-778-3307
Expertise
Education
- Fellowship: Memorial Sloan-Kettering-NY, Surgical Oncology, 2003
- Residency: Vanderbilt University Hosp & Clinic, Surgery, 2001
- Residency: Drexel University, Surgery, 1999
- Medical Education: SUNY - Hlth Science Ctr at Brooklyn, MD, 1994
Board Certifications
- Surgery (General Surgery): American Board of Surgery, 2002
Ratings & Reviews
4.9 out of 5
349 ratingsThe Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/28/2026
Very pleased.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/3/2026
Dr Kooby is tremendous
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/24/2026
Dr Kooby is a great person, doctor and surgen. He diagnosed a problem with my pancreas which required Whipple surgery. I was in great hands from start to finish.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/17/2026
Dr. David Kooby and his staff did an excellent job and talking to me about my health. Answering my questions and concerns. Also explaining what will happen after the surgery.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/17/2026
Dr Kooby is professional, courteous, and a delight to have as my physician.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/5/2026
The fellow was pleasant and respectful. Dr Kooby was simply amazing. So easy to talk to. Explain things and put my mind at ease. I met a new NP and she was very pleasant as well.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/16/2026
Dr Kooby's explanation of all relevant details was beyond excellent...simply superlative in every way.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/13/2026
I had a Pre Op meeting with Dr Kooby. He explained the importance of the surgery, and the risks. He is easy to talk with and understand.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/6/2026
Dr. Kooby is the bestprofessional, detailed and caring.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/16/2025
Excellent explanation of all concerns
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/6/2025
Dr Kooby has such a great memory & always makes time for Q-A after he discusses tx plan. He is kind- and cares immensely about his patients welfare. Trust his expertise and experience.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/4/2025
Dr. Kooby is an outstanding explainer of the treatment process and considerations which, if they occur, might require a follow-up visit.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/30/2025
Depended on professional experience and surgical knowledge of Dr Kooby to assist me in making a decision concerning my health.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/30/2025
Dr. Kooby was/is great!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/22/2025
My care provider is also beginning to work with a friend of mine. I have described my good experience to my friend.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/14/2025
Dr Kooby, MD is such a fabulous physician. He explained everything to me re my MRI, & advises any concerns
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/10/2025
The care provider and his team are excellent listeners that care about my medical issues.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/7/2025
I very much like the doctor and doctor assistant
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/7/2025
I saw Dr Kooby. I like him as a person and trust him with my care.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/23/2025
The best!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/23/2025
Clearly explained options,risk and benefit
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/19/2025
I've been to many doctors offices lately and this experience was amazing and a top tier professional process and clinical practice. The doctors are so amazingly knowledgeable, talented and very good in dealing and communicating with patients. I am so blessed with this clinical experience! Excellent!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/23/2025
Dr. Kooby is the absolute BEST!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/15/2025
Dr. Kooby is an asset to your institution.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/24/2025
Great experience! I felt very comfortable @
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/13/2025
Very informative, excellent professional!!! Outstanding surgeon!!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/23/2025
Dr Kooby and his Resident were the highest degree of likable and professional
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/10/2025
Kooby is excellent at what he does.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/26/2025
Dr Kooby is an excellent physician and I would recommend him and his staff to anyone.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 3/19/2025
Dr Kooby was outstanding. Dr Hale (?) was very good as well.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/27/2025
Dr. Kooby is an excellent Doctor. He took the time to explain all the issues to me and my family. He also suggested the best treatment for me and consulted with my oncologist as to the treatments available. Dr. Kooby put his patients before himself.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/25/2025
Dr Kooby was willing to answer any questions and made me feel at ease with his knowledge of my problems.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/11/2025
Thorough explanation and used terms and pictures that I could understand.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/4/2025
Being from out of state and seeing Dr. Kooby was the BEST decision I made. I was referred to him by my gastroenterologist and I am so glad he referred him to me! Dr. Kooby has excellent listening skills, great bed side manner, and truly an overall great doctor!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 2/4/2025
Ms Lisha Ho (the PA) explained my condition very well and addressed all my concerns. She was extremely articulated, knowledgeable and caring. During the visit I also had the opportunity to meet Dr Kooby who ensured everything was ok. I must say I was extremely impressed with the level of competency and care of this team.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 1/7/2025
Dr.Kooby and Staff are the BEST!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 12/24/2024
Dr Koobe is among the most personable caring physicians I have ever encountered. His thoroughness of explanation is exceptional.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/28/2024
I've been a patient of Dr Kooby's for a number of years now & we have a wonderful rapport w/one another.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/19/2024
All good
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 11/12/2024
Dr Kooby and his team not only saved my life, their compassion and concern for my well-being gave me an excellent quality of life.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/31/2024
Awesome doctor
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/22/2024
Please give Dr. Kooby a huge raise and all physicians training with him should pay close attention because you can't buy this caliber of physician
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 10/18/2024
Maybe more clear in future about texting a question thru "my chart" than trying to call office, I didn't realize that, nurse helped me!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/24/2024
Excellent
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/24/2024
Dr Kooby is an excellent physician and a very caring person. He takes his time to explain and address any questions and concerns.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/12/2024
Dr. Kooby is excellent at communicating test findings and soliciting input from me (the patient) on potential options for next steps to follow-up on my medical issue. He also listens to any concerns I express and provides his input about my concerns, drawing upon his medical and scientific expertise.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 9/10/2024
All of the physicians were spot on listening and advising treatment recommended
- 3 out of 5 starsReviewed on 8/22/2024
I felt like Dr Kooby was always rushed. He partially answered all my questions, but he seemed put off when I asked follow-up questions as if they weren't important. This was my first major surgery. I felt like his technical knowledge, skills, and experience were solid, but I would have appreciated him walking me through more of the details.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/31/2024
Dr. Kooby and team very informative and attentive to concerns.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/30/2024
Dr. Kooby is an excellent doctor!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/30/2024
I recommend the physician just some things I could not understand . Unable to do anything concerning my small pancreatic tumor and enlarged spleen due to my age and over weight . He recommended I have bariatic surgery and recommended a physician. To me this would be more serious to my body .
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/30/2024
We love Dr Kooby.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/23/2024
Dr. Kooby is the best!!!
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/23/2024
Dr. Kooby was very thoughtful in his explanation and his next steps plan for me. I really appreciate his conservative approach and his reassuring manner.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/21/2024
Dr. David Kooby is great and explains everything in great detail.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/16/2024
Very good bedside manner and explained everything so that I could understand what needed to be done.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 7/2/2024
Dr. Kooby is my guy. Period.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/28/2024
Dr. Koobys clinic staff are amazing, and I know he would have no other way.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/20/2024
Excellent doctors, nurses, and staff.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/20/2024
Dr. Kooby And his staff are fantastic.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/19/2024
I never thought healthcare could be run so well, very impressed with Emory and dr koobis practiceEmory Is run like the four seasons hotel, very customer focused, my prior experience at piedmont was more like the us postal service Keep up the great work and training
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/18/2024
DR.KOOBY was more than helpful and explained, everything to me in details what to expect.
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/18/2024
We are not dismissed yet. Anticipate excellent interaction
- 2 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/18/2024
Dr. Kooby knew when I arrived that I would not be a candidate for surgery. Of course, he had to deliver that bad news, but there really was no point in me traveling 150 miles to Atlanta when my records had been provided in advance. It seemed like this was an exercise for the intern to get some hands on experience for a specific situation.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/4/2024
Dr Kooby took time to reassure me, explain everything in depth and gave details about going forward with my treatment plan.
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 6/4/2024
We liked Dr. Kooby
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/8/2024
Very good service
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 5/7/2024
Dr. Kooby is the best physician I've ever had. He is compassionate and truly cares. He will call just to check in with you from time to time too. He's everything right about healthcare.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/30/2024
Dr Kooby and his team are compassionate and personable. Always accessible and responsive to questions.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/23/2024
I'm confident with Dr. Kooby and his care of my difficult medical condition, surgical procedures, post op care and recovery.
- 5 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/16/2024
Very professional team.
- 4 out of 5 starsReviewed on 4/16/2024
I felt very rushed. The doctor had not read my test results prior to entering my room. Dr Walker said he did not find the FISH test results so Dr Kooby was looking through my records to find the answers while In the room with us. I do not even feel as though I have the correct diagnosis for my cancer type. My confidence level leaves me seeking a second opinion.
