Sentara chief of cardiology named Physican of the Year

Superman. Angel on earth. Heroic. Kindhearted. Hardworking. Mentor. Friend. Those are just a few of the terms patients and colleagues use to describe the John J. Krueger Foundation 2025 Physician of the Year,Deepak Talreja, M.D. Dr. Talreja is the clinical chief of cardiology for Sentara Health and the director of the Cardiovascular Division at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital. He is also an associate professor at Eastern Virginia Medical School and spearheaded the development of the new cardiology fellowship program.

Additionally, Dr. Talreja has been published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, volunteers his time at the Beach Health Clinic as well as the Krueger Foundation, and shares countless hours with students considering a future in medicine.

The Krueger Foundation’s mission is to further the educational, philanthropic, and collegial efforts of the Virginia Beach medical community. Dr. Talreja exemplifies that mission through his exceptional contributions in service, leadership, and teaching.

As a high schooler, Dr. Talreja was taught and mentored by Dr. Krueger himself. Dr. John Krueger was a pathologist who served his patients and other physicians at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital for more than 30 years. He was committed to providing young men and women with opportunities to consider pursuing a career in health care. Coming full circle, Dr. Talreja shares the same passion, allowing students to shadow, observe, and participate in research projects.

The Krueger Foundation was established in honor of its namesake who passed away in 1996. His legacy lives on in highly revered physicians like Dr. Talreja, who is the 29th Physician of the Year. His father, Roshan Talreja, M.D., won the award in 2016.

The award is based on clinical excellence and community service, with nominations made by Hampton Roads physicians and considered by the Krueger Foundation Committee.
“We thank you for caring for us as patients and becoming a leader in the medical community,” said Mark Winters, M.D., past chairman of the foundation. “Thank you for being such a wonderful friend and colleague.”