Dr. Richard James Harding

Richard J. Harding, M.D., F.A.C.S is a board-certified surgeon with more than 25 years experience using minimally invasive surgical techniques to improve the lives of patients. Dr. Harding’s skill at small incision surgery and his high success rate attract patients and physician referrals not only throughout Arizona, but from neighboring Utah, Nevada and New Mexico as well as Canada.
Dr. Harding utilizes state-of-the-art technology and he is skilled in the most modern surgical techniques. This includes the use of advanced technology such as single site laparoscopic surgery and robotic assisted laparoscopic surgery.
Dr. Harding has developed an expertise in endocrine surgery and comprehensively tests for and treats both thyroid and parathyroid conditions, which has led to exceptional surgical outcomes. For patients’ convenience, many diagnostic tests and minor procedures can be performed in his office, including ultrasound studies and biopsies. Dr. Harding treats simple and complex …hernias, gallbladder disease, adrenal tumors, colon cancer, diverticulitis, and gastroesophageal reflux conditions.
Dr. Harding graduated Magna Cum Laude from Vanderbilt University and went on to graduate from medical school at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in 1989. He completed his surgical training at Georgetown University in 1995. Dr. Harding also served active duty as a Commander in the U.S. Navy in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.
Dr. Harding is a founding member of Arizona Associated Surgeons, a private practice formed with the goal of providing state-of-the-art, comprehensive patient care.
Through his education and years of practice, Dr. Harding developed expertise in performing minimally invasive operations, which utilize small incisions. He chose to specialize in minimally invasive surgery because he appreciates how it allows patients to recover more quickly, with less scarring and pain. Regarding his approach to surgery, Dr. Harding says, “I enjoy helping patients feel better. It gives me great satisfaction to perform surgery that not only gives the patient relief but also a substantial improvement in his or her quality of life.””