People often ask me why I decided to major in History at Stanford, rather than choosing a more standard pre-medical discipline like Biology or Chemistry.  Majoring in History was spectacular preparation for a life in Medicine.  I think that History and Medicine have a tremendous parallel:  they are both like a great detective game. The study of history requires a careful analysis of past events, the need to sort through available information, determine what pieces are still missing, and perhaps most importantly, the ability to make a conclusion after reviewing factors and data with an open mind.  Like Sherlock Holmes or other great detectives, you need to use the tools and information in front of you to build your case.  As a physician, I think of myself as a detective, I need to review the patient information, study the data that are available, gather additional information, and most importantly, I need to listen to the patient’s issues and complaints.  I use all of this information to build a treatment plan for each patient that is tailored to his or her specific situation.

Each individual requires a unique treatment plan to improve his/her health and well-being, and this ‘plan’ must be continually revisited and fine-tuned.  I strongly believe that for those with endocrine problems, we can find a treatment regimen that will improve, protect, and maintain health, and allow you to feel much better on a day-to-day basis.  I consider the patient’s feedback regarding what symptoms they have and how they are changing just as important as any x-ray or blood test.