Meena R. Kannan

Meena Kannan, M.D., MPH, has been with Shepherd Center since 2026 and sees patients at the Andrew C. Carlos Multiple Sclerosis Institute.

Specialties

• Neurological disorders that originate from the brain, spinal cord, or nervous system.

Education and training

Oregon Health and Science University, 2015-2017
Fellowship, Multiple Sclerosis and Immunology

Emory University School of Medicine, 2011-2015
Residency, Neurology

University of Alabama – Birmingham School of Medicine, 2007-2011
Doctor of Medicine

University of Alabama – Birmingham School of Public Health, 2006-2008
Master’s in Public Health

Certifications

American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology
Certified in Neurology

About

Dr. Kannan is a board-certified neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuroimmunology. She earned her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine and a Master of Public Health from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health. Dr. Kannan completed her neurology residency at Emory University School of Medicine, followed by a fellowship in Multiple Sclerosis and Immunology at Oregon Health & Science University. She is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Neurology.

She is passionate about delivering patient-centered MS care rooted in early diagnosis, evidence-based treatment and patient empowerment. She believes the best outcomes are achieved through partnership, education and shared decision-making, helping patients become active participants in managing their health. Her approach emphasizes early access to interdisciplinary services — including rehabilitation, wellness, behavioral health and supportive resources — to address the full impact of MS, prevent disability and preserve quality of life. By fostering independence, resilience and overall well-being, she strives to help patients thrive throughout their disease journey.

Dr. Kannan was drawn to Shepherd Center because of its collaborative, interdisciplinary model of care. During her neurology residency, she rotated through the MS Institute and was inspired by the way neurologists, rehabilitation physicians, therapists, psychologists, nurses and social workers worked together to achieve the best outcomes for patients. She values Shepherd Center’s commitment to evidence-based MS care and its focus on connecting patients with the resources they need to take ownership of their health.

Originally from Mobile, Alabama, Dr. Kannan enjoys volunteering with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy to help maintain hiking trails. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, including her dogs, Baron and Charlie, backpacking locally and abroad, and attending live music concerts and sporting events.