Published on Thursday, October 1, 2026, the annual "Best of San Diego: Health" feature by Ranch & Coast Magazine celebrates the region’s leading medical professionals, innovative wellness centers, and groundbreaking scientific advancements. This year’s esteemed list acknowledges a diverse array of healthcare providers, from top-tier general practitioners and specialized doctors to renowned hospitals and cutting-edge fitness studios, reflecting San Diego’s vibrant and progressive health landscape. A significant highlight of the 2026 edition is the recognition of the "Making Waves in Medicine: Legends of Science and Surfing" event, which coincided with the momentous FDA approval of Rasonque (daraxonrasib), a pioneering targeted therapy for metastatic pancreatic cancer, a testament to decades of research by scientists like Dr. Kevan M. Shokat.
Recognizing Excellence Across San Diego’s Healthcare Spectrum
The "Best of Health 2026" awards underscore the commitment of San Diego’s medical community to delivering exceptional patient care and fostering community well-being. The selections, often reflecting reader preferences and editorial insights, serve as a valuable guide for residents seeking premier health services. San Diego County, with its burgeoning biotechnology sector and concentration of world-class research institutions, has long been a hub for healthcare innovation, and these awards spotlight the practitioners and facilities at the forefront of this dynamic field.
In the crucial category of General Practitioner, Dr. Megan McBryde and Dr. Michael Lovell were recognized for their comprehensive care and dedication to patient health. Their practices are foundational to community wellness, providing primary care that often serves as the first point of contact for individuals navigating their healthcare journeys. A robust primary care system is essential for preventive medicine and early intervention, contributing significantly to public health outcomes.
For Local Hospitals, two prominent institutions under the Scripps Health system received accolades: Scripps Encinitas and Scripps La Jolla. These facilities are pillars of the region’s healthcare infrastructure, known for their advanced medical technologies, specialized departments, and commitment to both emergency and long-term care, drawing patients from across Southern California and beyond. Scripps Health, a not-for-profit integrated health system established in 1924, is consistently ranked among the nation’s best and plays a pivotal role in San Diego’s medical ecosystem, contributing significantly to medical research, education, and community outreach. Their continued recognition reflects a sustained standard of excellence in patient services and clinical innovation.
The field of OB/GYN saw Dr. Lily Tsai and Dr. Kirsten Lee honored for their expertise in women’s health. Their work encompasses everything from routine gynecological care to complex obstetric services, supporting women through all stages of life with compassion and medical excellence. In a region known for its high quality of life, access to exemplary women’s health services is a key indicator of community well-being.
Orthopedic Doctors Dr. Sanjum Samagh and Dr. Patrick Padilla were distinguished for their contributions to musculoskeletal health. Specializing in conditions affecting bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles, these physicians are vital for athletes, accident victims, and individuals suffering from degenerative conditions, helping them regain mobility and improve quality of life. Dr. Samagh, associated with Sport Ortho SD, and Dr. Padilla, affiliated with the Center for Surgery Encinitas, represent the high caliber of orthopedic care available in the region, a critical service for San Diego’s active population.
In Dermatology, Dr. Melanie Palm of Art of Skin MD and Dr. William Groff of Cosmetic Laser Dermatology were recognized. These practitioners are at the forefront of skin health, offering a blend of medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology services. Their practices are known for utilizing advanced techniques to address a wide range of dermatological concerns, from skin cancer detection and treatment to aesthetic enhancements, reflecting San Diego’s emphasis on both health and appearance. The innovation in dermatological treatments has seen rapid advancements in recent years, and these clinics embody that progress.
Eye Doctors Dr. Stephen Moffett of Encinitas Vision Optometry and Dr. Courtney Cape of Morris Eye Group were celebrated for their commitment to vision care. Their services span comprehensive eye exams, prescription fittings, and the diagnosis and management of various ocular conditions, ensuring optimal eye health for their patients. Vision health is a cornerstone of overall quality of life, and these practitioners provide essential services to the community.
The growing field of Naturopathic Medicine was represented by the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine and Selah Center. These centers offer holistic approaches to health, integrating conventional medicine with natural therapies, emphasizing disease prevention, and promoting overall wellness through personalized treatment plans. This recognition highlights a broader trend towards integrative health solutions within the region, where patients increasingly seek comprehensive care that addresses lifestyle and environmental factors alongside traditional medical treatments.
For General Dentists, Dr. Curtis Chan and Dr. Michael Klein received honors. Their practices provide essential oral healthcare services, from preventative maintenance to restorative procedures, contributing significantly to the overall health and confidence of their patients. Oral health is intricately linked to systemic health, making the role of skilled dentists crucial for community well-being.
Beyond traditional medical fields, the awards also celebrated institutions dedicated to physical well-being. Specialty Workout Studios The Sculpt Room and Pilates of San Diego were lauded for their unique fitness offerings. Gyms Equinox and the Magdalena Ecke Family YMCA were recognized for their comprehensive facilities and community engagement. Lastly, Personal Trainers Carrie Myers from Ecke YMCA and Kim Kelly of Kim Kelly Fit, along with Physical Therapy providers ReKinected Physical Therapy and G3 Physical Therapy & Wellness Center, were acknowledged for their personalized approaches to fitness and rehabilitation. These categories reflect San Diego’s active lifestyle and the importance placed on physical conditioning and recovery.
The Sculpt Room: Elevating Fitness in San Diego
Among the distinguished winners, The Sculpt Room earned the Readers’ Choice award for Best Specialty Workout Studio. With locations in Solana Beach and Pacific Beach, The Sculpt Room has carved a niche by seamlessly blending classic Pilates principles with a contemporary, athletic methodology. This innovative approach delivers an elevated workout experience designed not only to strengthen and challenge the body but also to inspire participants.
The studio offers a diverse range of classes, catering to various fitness levels and preferences. Clients can choose from reformer Pilates sessions, which utilize specialized equipment for a full-body workout, or infrared-heated mat Pilates classes, which enhance flexibility and detoxification. Infrared heat therapy has gained popularity for its purported benefits in muscle recovery, circulation, and stress reduction, making these classes particularly appealing. The class formats vary from foundational movements, ideal for beginners or those seeking precise technique, to more dynamic cardio- and strength-focused formats that push seasoned enthusiasts. The Solana Beach studio further expands its offerings with Reformer Tower classes, providing an additional dimension to its comprehensive Pilates curriculum.
What truly sets The Sculpt Room apart, and what resonated deeply with Ranch & Coast readers, is its welcoming atmosphere, thoughtful instruction, and robust sense of community. In an increasingly competitive wellness market, the studio has cultivated an environment where members feel supported and motivated, fostering not just physical transformation but also a sense of belonging. This emphasis on holistic engagement, combining expert guidance with a supportive social fabric, cements The Sculpt Room’s stature as a beloved and highly recommended fitness destination in San Diego. Its success reflects a growing demand for specialized, high-quality fitness experiences that go beyond conventional gym models, focusing on mindful movement, personalized attention, and a supportive community.
Making Waves in Medicine: A Chronicle of Philanthropy and Discovery
The Editor’s Pick, "Making Waves in Medicine: Legends of Science and Surfing," stands out as a beacon of philanthropic impact and scientific collaboration. This annual event, a cornerstone of San Diego’s charitable calendar, has a rich history rooted in a singular mission: to accelerate cancer research.
A Timeline of Impact:
- 1994: The event originates as "Surf for a Cure," conceived as a grassroots effort to harness the vibrant surfing community of San Diego in support of cancer research. The initial focus was on channeling local passion into tangible scientific advancement, leveraging the region’s iconic surf culture for a noble cause.
- Evolution: Over the years, "Surf for a Cure" evolved into "Legends of Science and Surfing." This transformation broadened its scope, integrating an oncology symposium alongside the beloved Legends of Surfing Invitational. This dual approach created a unique platform where cutting-edge scientific discourse met the spirit of athletic camaraderie, fostering a deeper connection between the community and the research it supports. The symposium attracts leading oncologists and researchers, facilitating knowledge exchange and collaboration.
- Ongoing Mission: The primary beneficiary of the event has consistently been Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health. As one of only 54 National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the United States, Moores Cancer Center is a global leader in cancer research, prevention, and treatment. The funds raised through "Legends of Science and Surfing" directly fuel critical investigations into various cancer types, supporting innovative clinical trials, attracting top scientific talent, and providing state-of-the-art facilities.
- Cumulative Impact: Since its inception, the event has amassed an extraordinary sum, raising more than $14 million for cancer research and innovation. This substantial funding has played a crucial role in advancing scientific understanding, developing new diagnostic tools, and pioneering novel therapeutic strategies that have a direct impact on patient outcomes, both locally and globally.
The 2026 gathering of "Legends of Science and Surfing" proved particularly momentous. It featured the presentation of the prestigious Rell Sunn Award to Kevan M. Shokat, PhD, a distinguished professor of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Chemistry at UC San Francisco, whose work has fundamentally reshaped the landscape of cancer therapeutics. The Rell Sunn Award, named in honor of the legendary Hawaiian surfer and breast cancer advocate, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to cancer research and patient advocacy. Dr. Shokat’s selection underscored his profound influence on oncology, particularly his relentless pursuit of targeting previously "undruggable" cancer pathways.
The Breakthrough: Rasonque and the Undruggable KRAS
Just 12 days after Dr. Shokat received the Rell Sunn Award, the scientific community and cancer patients worldwide celebrated a historic milestone: the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Rasonque (daraxonrasib). This drug represents a first-in-class targeted therapy for metastatic pancreatic cancer, a disease notoriously difficult to treat and characterized by a dismal prognosis. Pancreatic cancer, often diagnosed at advanced stages, has a five-year survival rate that has historically lagged behind many other cancers, making this approval particularly impactful. This rapid succession of recognition and regulatory approval highlights the immediate and profound real-world impact of the research celebrated at the "Legends of Science and Surfing" event.
Dr. Shokat’s pioneering research was instrumental in laying the scientific groundwork for Rasonque. For decades, the KRAS gene was considered one of cancer’s most important, yet "undruggable," drivers. KRAS mutations are present in approximately 90% of pancreatic cancers, making it a critical target. The KRAS protein acts as a molecular switch, signaling cell growth and division. When mutated, this switch becomes stuck "on," leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor formation. However, the KRAS protein’s smooth, sphere-like structure, lacking easily accessible binding pockets, made it exceptionally challenging for drug developers to design molecules that could effectively bind to it and inhibit its activity. Many pharmaceutical companies had abandoned efforts to target KRAS, deeming it an insurmountable obstacle.
Dr. Shokat’s laboratory, among others, persevered. His innovative approach involved exploring unconventional binding sites on the KRAS protein, eventually identifying pockets that could be exploited by small molecules. This paradigm shift in thinking challenged the long-held dogma and opened new avenues for drug discovery. His work provided the fundamental chemical biology insights that enabled the development of compounds capable of selectively inhibiting specific KRAS mutations. Rasonque (daraxonrasib) is a direct descendant of this groundbreaking research, specifically targeting a common KRAS mutation found in pancreatic cancer. The drug’s mechanism of action involves binding to the mutant KRAS protein in its inactive state, locking it in that conformation and preventing it from signaling tumor growth.
The approval of Rasonque signifies a monumental shift in the treatment paradigm for metastatic pancreatic cancer, offering a new hope where few effective options existed. It validates the immense value of persistent, foundational scientific inquiry, even when faced with significant skepticism and technical hurdles.
Implications and Future Directions in Cancer Therapy
The FDA approval of Rasonque carries profound implications for oncology. Firstly, it represents a significant victory for patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer, a disease that has seen limited therapeutic advancements in recent decades. The ability to specifically target a driver mutation like KRAS offers the potential for more effective treatments with potentially fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy, improving both survival rates and quality of life for patients.
Secondly, this breakthrough fundamentally alters the perception of KRAS as an "undruggable" target. Dr. Shokat’s work, culminating in Rasonque, has opened the floodgates for a new generation of RAS-directed cancer therapies. Researchers are now actively pursuing drugs that target other KRAS mutations (beyond the specific one addressed by Rasonque) and other proteins within the broader RAS pathway, which is implicated in numerous cancers beyond the pancreas, including lung and colorectal cancers. This shift is expected to accelerate drug development across a broader spectrum of malignancies, offering personalized treatment options based on a patient’s specific genetic profile, moving towards a future of precision oncology.
Official Responses and Broader Impact:
While specific official statements regarding Rasonque’s approval directly linked
