Richard Vela, PA-C

Biography

Richard brings a deep commitment to neurosurgery and emergency medicine to the team at Carolina NeuroSurgery & Spine Associates. Before becoming a PA, he served for seven years as an EMT in underserved areas of Los Angeles County. During that time he saw the impact of prompt, compassionate care in high-stakes situations and developed a strong foundation in patient advocacy.

Richard earned his undergraduate degree in biology, graduating at the top of his class, and then completed post-baccalaureate studies with a focus in neurobiology at Harvard University. He went on to attend Northeastern University’s Physician Assistant Program, where he received the Dean’s Merit Scholarship and completed clinical rotations at both Harvard and Yale teaching hospitals. He further advanced his specialization by completing a postgraduate diploma in neurosurgery from the University of Buckingham.

Richard is drawn to the high-stakes nature of neurosurgery and values the opportunity to follow patients from presentation and diagnosis through treatment and recovery. He believes in honest patient care, offering transparent, realistic conversations and motivating patients while trusting in the body’s remarkable ability to heal with time and patience.

Originally from Orange County, California, Richard is now based in North Carolina with his wife and their three daughters, including identical twins. Outside the clinic he enjoys mountain biking, hiking and exploring culinary experiences, whether preparing meals at home or dining at unique restaurants. A former baseball player and lifelong beachgoer, he also volunteered with the Medical Reserve Corps in California before relocating.

Richard was drawn to CNSA by its strong reputation and deep roots in the Charlotte region and is excited to serve patients across general and cranial neurosurgery.

Education

• Undergraduate Degree in Biology – Top of class
• Post-Baccalaureate in Neurobiology – Harvard University
• PA Program – Northeastern University (Dean’s Merit Scholarship)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Neurosurgery – University of Buckingham