Dr Harrell E. Robinson is a seasoned ENT surgeon and business leader based in Orange County, California. With over 30 years in medicine, he’s built a career that blends clinical care, humanitarian work, and business strategy.
His medical journey began at Loma Linda University, where he completed an accelerated programme in just three years, specialising in otolaryngology and facial plastic surgery.
In 1984, Dr Robinson opened his private practice in Orange County. Over the years, he expanded his work to include building a surgical centre and advising on medical infrastructure. A formative experience during residency—providing surgery to refugees in Thailand and Cambodia—sparked his lifelong commitment to global healthcare. This led to the creation of Global Healing Inc., a non-profit focused on building hospitals and delivering care to underserved communities.
His work has taken him to the Philippines, Laos, Africa, and beyond. “It’s not just about fixing symptoms,” he says. “It’s about building systems that help people live better lives.”
Dr Robinson is also the CEO and CFO of ATR Law Group PLLC in Phoenix, Arizona, which he runs with his wife, an immigration lawyer. Together, they bring structure and service to both the medical and legal worlds.
Outside of work, Dr Harrell E. Robinson enjoys golf, painting, and spending time with his family. His sons are studying pre-law and pre-med, continuing the family’s legacy of purpose-driven work.
His story is one of service, faith, and practical leadership—building change where it’s needed most.
Where did your journey in medicine begin?
I was born in Thomasville, Alabama, and raised in Florida. I’m the first male of seven siblings, and our parents, especially my father who was a preacher, taught us to live with purpose. Four of us were high school valedictorians. I studied chemistry and biology at Oakwood University and then entered Loma Linda Medical School, finishing in three years. I knew early on I wanted to make a difference in medicine.
What led you to specialise in ENT and facial plastic surgery?
I was always fascinated by the head and neck region—it’s so complex, and the work can be life-changing. During my residency, I had the chance to travel to Thailand and Cambodia to perform surgeries in refugee camps. That changed how I viewed healthcare. I realised surgery could do more than fix problems—it could restore dignity and hope.
How did that experience shape your career?
That was really the start of Global Healing Inc. I came back knowing I had to do more than treat patients in Orange County. I had to think globally. Since then, I’ve helped develop healthcare access in places like Laos, Africa, and the Philippines. We’re not just sending supplies—we’re building hospitals, planning systems, and training people on the ground.
What’s the mission of Global Healing Inc.?
We work to build sustainable healthcare systems in underserved areas. That includes physical infrastructure like clinics and hospitals, but also long-term planning—what works for that community, not just a copy-paste model.
You’re also involved in law. How did that happen?
My wife is an immigration lawyer, and we decided to build something together. In 2019, we launched ATR Law Group PLLC in Phoenix. I handle the business side, while she runs the legal side. It’s different from medicine, but the same principles apply: structure, strategy, and service.
What’s one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in building across different industries?
Learning to adapt. Healthcare, law, humanitarian work—they all speak different languages. But leadership is about listening first. Whether you’re talking to a patient, a community leader, or a legal client, you have to understand their needs before offering a solution.
What keeps you motivated after all these years?
Honestly, it’s the people. I still get letters from communities we helped ten years ago. That’s what reminds me why I do this. Also, my family. My sons are studying pre-law and pre-med. Seeing them step into their own paths is deeply rewarding.
Any advice for young professionals starting out?
Don’t chase titles—chase impact. Build something that outlives your career. And never underestimate the value of service. Whether you’re in law, healthcare, or business, your real job is helping people.
How do you maintain balance between work and life?
I make time for golf and painting. I hit the gym three to four times a week. Physical health fuels mental clarity. And I make time for faith and family—those things keep me grounded.
What’s next for you?
We’re working on new hospital projects in Texas, Mexico, and parts of Africa. I’m also focusing on mentorship and helping younger professionals who want to make a real difference. The goal is to leave something better behind—for the next generation to carry forward.
Read more:
Harrell E. Robinson on Building Global Healthcare from the Ground Up