Dr. Paul Tolentino

Paul Tolentino, M.D., Ph.D., FACS, FAANS, FCNS

– Board-Certified Neurosurgeon

Compassionate and Comprehensive Neurosurgery Care in Southeast Missouri

Dr. Paul Tolentino is a highly respected board-certified neurosurgeon at Regional Brain & Spine, offering expert care for patients facing a wide range of neurosurgical conditions. Known for his thorough approach and dedication to patient wellness, Dr. Tolentino provides individualized treatment plans built on clinical excellence, trust, and transparency.

With over two decades of experience in diagnosing and treating complex disorders of the brain, spine, and peripheral nerve conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, Dr. Tolentino serves as a vital member of the clinic’s multidisciplinary team, supporting both outpatient and inpatient neurosurgical care.

Areas of Specialization

Dr. Tolentino specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of:
His patient care philosophy combines evidence-based medicine with a deep understanding of each patient’s unique symptoms and concerns.

Education and Training

Dr. Tolentino is certified by the  American Board of Neurological Surgery, and remains committed to ongoing education and clinical research in the evolving field of neurosurgery.

A Thoughtful, Patient-First Approach

Dr. Tolentino is recognized by his highly refined surgical skills and practical insights about how a patient’s condition affects his or her quality of life. He emphasizes:

Managing chronic or acute neurosurgical conditions, Dr. Tolentino wants every patient to feel informed and supported at every stage of care.

Meet his team members

Jason Bowers, PA-C – Certified Physician Assistant

Specialized Neurosurgical Care Support in Southeast Missouri

Jason Bowers, PA-C, is a nationally certified physician assistant at Regional Brain & Spine, where he plays an integral role in providing high-quality, team-based care for patients with brain, spine, and nerve disorders. With a strong background in neurosurgery, Jason supports both surgical and non-surgical patients throughout their treatment journey.

Patients trust Jason for his clinical knowledge, professionalism, and ability to make complex medical information accessible and understandable.

Clinical Focus and Patient Care

Working alongside a board-certified neurosurgeon, Dr. Paul Tolentino, Jason contributes to all aspects of patient care, including:

His goal is to ensure that every patient receives compassionate, thorough, and well-informed care from consultation through recovery.

Education and Professional Credentials

Jason brings a wealth of experience from his many years of neurosurgical training and work directly under Dr. Paul Tolentino. He is committed to ongoing learning in the rapidly evolving field of neurosurgical care.

Jake Muckerman, MSN, FNP-BC – Family Nurse Practitioner

Advanced Neurosurgical Care with a Patient-Focused Approach

Jake Muckerman, MSN, FNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Regional Brain & Spine, where he specializes in the treatment and management of complex neurosurgical conditions. With a strong foundation in critical care, neurotrauma, and emergency medicine, Jake plays a critical role in the clinic’s multidisciplinary care team. He brings advanced clinical training, clear communication, and compassionate care to patients throughout Southeast Missouri.

Clinical Role and Expertise

Jake supports the neurosurgical team, working closely with Dr. Tolentino and other Regional Brain & Spine physicians to provide his responsibilities, which include:

Jake ensures that each patient receives personalized attention and a clear understanding of their health condition and treatment options.

Education and Professional Background

Jake’s background in neurosurgical care, combined with his years of experience in critical care and emergency medicine, gives him a strong advantage in managing medically complex patients, especially those recovering from neurosurgical procedures. He is dedicated to delivering patient-centered care in every stage of treatment.

Philosophy of Care

Jake’s approach to care is centered on empathy, education, and empowerment. He believes that informed patients make better health decisions and feel more confident navigating their care journey.

Jake’s warm and approachable style fosters trust and comfort, particularly among older adults and patients managing chronic conditions.

Proudly Serving the Southeast Missouri Community

As part of the expert team at Regional Brain & Spine, Jake Muckerman and Jason Bowers deliver high-quality neurosurgical support services at our Cape Girardeau, MO office under the supervision of Dr. Paul Tolentino.

They are committed to advancing the standard of care for brain, spine, and nerve-related conditions throughout the Southeast Missouri region.

Contact Us – Regional Brain & Spine

Looking for expert neurosurgical and spine care in Southeast Missouri, Western Kentucky, or Southern Illinois? Regional Brain & Spine makes it easy to connect with our team. Whether you’re a new patient or already established, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Request an Appointment

Any patient type, new or established, may call or use our general contact form to request an appointment.

Please note that all Regional Brain & Spine providers accept self referrals.

Our Office Locations

Cape Girardeau, MO (For All Specialties)

Farmington, MO (Physiatry/Weight Management Only)

Dexter, MO (Pain Management Only)

Serving Patients Across the Region

Regional Brain & Spine proudly provides advanced neurosurgery, pain management, physiatry, and obesity medicine services to patients throughout:

No matter which location is most convenient for you, our team is committed to delivering compassionate, specialized care close to home.

Get in Touch Today

Have questions about your appointment, insurance, or services? Call our main office in Cape Girardeau at (573) 332-7746. Our friendly staff will be happy to help you schedule your visit or connect you to the right department.