William “Bill” J. Lagaly, DO, is a respected family medicine physician, wound care and hyperbaric specialist based in Athens, Georgia, known for his patient-centered approach and dedication to fostering trust in the doctor–patient relationship.  Starting his career out as a commercial diver in the 1980's, he became a diver medic, inspiring him to go to the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Lagaly graduated in 1994 from the University of North Texas Health Science Center’s Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Lagaly went on to complete his internship and residency in Family Medicine at the same facility in Fort Worth.  A wound care and hyperbaric oxygen program was simultaneously being developed at the hospital, so he was able to spend free time and electives with the developing program.  He practiced family medicine for two years in Arkansas, then developed a hyperbaric and wound care program at St. Vincent Infirmary in Little Rock. After several years in Arkansas, he was recruited to Buffalo, NY and developed a busy program for Catholic Health.

Dr. Lagaly is currently board certified in family medicine, hyperbaric medicine and wound care. He has been practicing wound care and hyperbaric medicine full time for the past twenty years.  He moved to Georgia in 2020 to become the medical director of the wound care & hyperbaric program at Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital, serving communities in 17 counties around Athens and northeast Georgia.

In his practice, Dr. Lagaly prioritizes clear communication, ensuring that patients understand their diagnoses and treatment options.  Many patients have noted his ability to explain complex medical issues in accessible terms, a skill that fosters confidence and reduces anxiety.  As one patient review put it, “He took the time to explain my diagnosis in a way I understood, and I never felt rushed.” 

Beyond the clinic, Dr. Lagaly’s life is marked by a balance of professional dedication and personal fulfillment.  He enjoys scuba diving, fishing, and making wine—activities that speak to his appreciation for both adventure and craftsmanship.  These pursuits not only provide relaxation but also mirror the patience and attention to detail that define his medical practice.  His ability to maintain this balance underscores the importance of self-care for healthcare providers, a principle that ultimately benefits the patients they serve.

Dr. Lagaly is a past president of the Arkansas Osteopathic Medical Association and the Foundation for the Advancement of Wound Care.  Knowing the importance of organized medicine, he became an active member of the Georgia Osteopathic Medical Association in 2020.  He has served on the GOMA Executive Board including help formulating the strategic plan in 2024 (quick link on GOMA website), lecturing at conferences, and lobbying for the profession at the state capital.

At his inauguration as President of GOMA at the Annual Meeting in November 2025, Dr. Lagaly said, “My job, as I see it, for the next year is to guide forward the things that we already established in our retreat a year and a half ago.  The goals that we already set – some short-term, some long-term – along with advocacy which is well established.  I think letting our new and prospective members as well as our current members know these things that you are all doing and why they need to be members.”