Frieda Hulka, MD, FACS

Frieda Hulka, MD, FACS, joined Western Surgical Group in 1999 following completion of her General Surgery residency and Trauma and Critical Care fellowship. She was the first woman surgeon in the group and the first woman trauma surgeon in Northern Nevada. Early in her career, Dr. Hulka focused on caring for general, breast, and trauma patients.

After three years in practice, Dr. Hulka became the first Pediatric Surgical Fellow at Kosair Children’s Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky. She later returned to Northern Nevada, where her practice now focuses on caring for children and some of the most vulnerable patients in the community. As one of only two fellowship-trained pediatric surgeons in Northern Nevada, Dr. Hulka provides specialized surgical care for infants, children, and adolescents with conditions ranging from common pediatric surgical problems to complex congenital anomalies and pediatric trauma.

Dr. Hulka is deeply committed to medical education, leadership, and community service. She serves as Clinical Professor at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, where she teaches and mentors medical students and residents. At Renown Children’s Hospital, she holds the positions of Chief of Pediatric Surgical Services and Pediatric Trauma Director, leading efforts to improve pediatric surgical and trauma care throughout the region.

Education & Certifications

• Fellowship, Pediatric Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, 2002–2003
• Fellowship, Trauma and Critical Care, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, OR, 1998–1999
• Residency, General Surgery, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, OR, 1992–1998
• Doctor of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, 1988–1992
• Bachelor of Science, Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, 1982–1987
• Board Certified, American Board of Surgery (General Surgery, Trauma and Critical Care)
• Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
• ATLS Certified
• PALS Certified

Leadership Positions & Professional Activities

• Clinical Professor, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Surgery
• Chief of Pediatric Surgical Services, Renown Children’s Hospital (2017–present)
• Pediatric Trauma Director, Renown Children’s Hospital (2019–present)
• Medical Director, Washoe County Safe Kids (2001–present)
• Board Member, Think First (2011–present)
• Committee Member, American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA) Trauma Committee (2019–present)
• Committee Member, Pediatric Trauma Society (PTS) Guideline Committee (2021–present)
• Former Chief, Department of Surgery, Renown Medical Center (2010–2011)
• Former Board Member, Nevada Women’s Fund (2009–2014)

Professional Memberships

• American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA)
• American Society of Breast Surgeons
• American College of Surgeons
• American Board of Surgery
• Society of Critical Care Medicine
• Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society
• Washoe County Medical Society
• Nevada Medical Association

Selected Honors & Awards

• 2025: Nevada Women’s Fund Hall of Fame Inductee
• 2023: Arthur Lurie Distinguished Physician Award, Renown Health Foundation
• 2019: CW Woods Award, Washoe County Medical Society
• 2018: Outstanding Clinical Community Faculty Award, University of Nevada School of Medicine
• 2012: Outstanding Alumnus Award, University of Nevada School of Medicine
• 2008: Woman of Achievement Award, Nevada Women’s Fund
• 2002: Consultant of the Year, Nevada Association of Family Physicians
• 2001: Clinical Teaching Award, University of Nevada School of Medicine
• 1997: OHSU Department of Surgery Resident Teaching Award
• 1996: Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society Nomination
• 1996: Best Clinical Paper, Portland Surgical Society Annual Research Competition
• 1995, 1994: Best Clinical Paper – State, American College of Surgeons Regional Trauma Paper Competition
• 1992: Outstanding Student in Surgery, University of Nevada School of Medicine

Research & Publications

Dr. Hulka has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in leading medical journals and has presented her research at national and international conferences. Her research interests include pediatric trauma, pediatric appendicitis, neonatal surgical conditions, and outcomes in pediatric surgery. Notable publications include work on pediatric trauma systems, splenic trauma, pyloric stenosis, and optimal management of pediatric appendicitis.

Academic Contributions

As Clinical Professor at the University of Nevada School of Medicine, Dr. Hulka is actively involved in teaching medical students and residents. She regularly presents at Grand Rounds on topics including pediatric surgical emergencies, neonatal conditions, and pediatric trauma management. Her commitment to education has been recognized with multiple teaching awards throughout her career.

Community Involvement

Dr. Hulka is deeply committed to injury prevention and child safety in Northern Nevada. As Medical Director of Washoe County Safe Kids and a board member of Think First, she works to prevent pediatric injuries through education and community outreach. She has served on numerous boards and committees dedicated to improving healthcare and supporting women and children in the community.