Meet Our Doctors
ESTABLISHING A FOUNDATION OF TRUST
D
r. Prayash Patel has always been an interactive learner, and while attending medical school, he made a point to explore a number of medical specialties. “I enjoy variety in what I do, and neurosurgery was able to provide a degree of elegance in technique,” says Dr. Patel. “I love that one day I can see a patient suffering from chronic pain caused by a lumbar disc herniation, and the next day, I can be resecting a large brain tumor, both of which use different techniques and processes.” And while it may be the variety and responsibility he experiences as a neurosurgeon that Dr. Patel really enjoys, he is also focused on creating a foundation of trust for his patients. “I try to be truthful and forthright with patients regarding diagnoses, prognoses, details of surgeries, risks, and expectations post-operatively,” says Dr. Patel. “Sometimes surgery is not the right path, and I never suggest surgery if I don’t feel it will greatly benefit the patient, because the time and financial sacrifices are not things to be taken lightly.”
I treat every patient and their family as if they were my own. I put myself in their shoes to understand the pain and frustrations they are experiencing or the anxiety about an upcoming surgery.”
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DR. PRAYASH PATEL E R L A NG E R N E U RO S C I E NC E I N ST I T U T E
1
What do you love most about your profession?
I love that I am able to make a significant impact in my patients’ lives and often am quite literally able to help save their lives, such as in the case of severe head trauma or a life-threatening brain tumor. I enjoy seeing the different types of pathology that I can help treat.
2
What is your best advice for patients?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about your condition and treatment plan. Trust between a physician and patient is vital and begins with communication. I always want to make sure patients feel comfortable and have the necessary information before making any decisions.
3
What do you see as the most exciting new development for your profession?
There are some exciting and emerging technologies in neurosurgery, including computer-assisted navigation in spinal and cranial procedures that can help increase accuracy and reduce operative time and complications.
4
Why did you choose to become a doctor?
I consider being a doctor and being trusted with someone’s medical care a great honor. It provides me with a fulfilling purpose in life, and I enjoy every minute of it wholeheartedly.
5
What would you consider to be your main strengths?
I consider my ability to multitask effectively one of my greatest strengths. Surgeons are often faced with juggling clinical duties, surgical procedures, and personal or family responsibilities. It is something I had to gain proficiency in early on and has been vital to not only my success as a physician, but also as a husband and father.
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