Conversations from the Leather Lounge: Reeta Achari, M.D., ’92
Residency: Neurology
Fellowship: Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology
Current Job Title: Neurology/Neuroimaging/Neurophysiology In Private Practice
What is your fondest memory of your time at McGovern Medical School?
Starting our clinical rotations in 3rd year is a great memory. It was both exciting and anxiety-provoking as it was all uncharted territory. My first rotation was on the trauma surgery service with Dr. Duke. I remember showering at 3:30 a.m. to get to the hospital to pre-round on the patients and wondering ‘who does this?’ Then I got to work in the trauma room and was hooked. That year allowed all of us to discover things about ourselves we may not have known. It was fun to see all the different elements of personalities emerge when we were finally out of the classroom.
What are your hopes for today’s McGovern Medical School students?
I hope they realize that medicine is a profession, a calling, and not just a job. We do a great deal more that the art and science of medicine. We are supposed to be advocates for our patients and the health of our communities. The current environment in healthcare seems to have put regulatory burdens first and the physician-patient relationship last. I hope they will remain optimistic about their role in their patients’ lives and regain this precious relationship. Medicine requires so much personal sacrifice to obtain the knowledge and experience to help people, and I hope they will know it’s totally worth it. And finally, I hope they will retain the compassion for helping and healing with which they entered medical school.
What inspires you?
Acts of kindness. Fearlessness. Nature. Knowledge. Space.
Who is your mentor?
I’ve had many mentors and teachers in this journey. Without even knowing it was happening, I suppose my first mentor was my maternal grandfather. He was the doctor in a tiny town in India, and my first impressions of being a doctor came from watching him. My father, with whom I have worked for 20 years, and is also a neurologist has been a great example and teacher. My interest in neuroimaging was guided by Dr. Jack Greenberg. Dr. Terry Satterwhite’s wisdom and friendship was invaluable in circumnavigating a start in private practice in the Texas Medical Center.
What’s a day on the job like?
I see patients all morning until about 12:30. I take a small break for a light lunch. I return some calls and finish charts. Then I see patients in the afternoon until about 5:30. There’s usually a few EMGs in the mix as well. I make calls, read MRIs and finish up. I do procedures on Friday mornings-spinal taps, Botox, etc. Each day is structured the same, but I never know what I’m going to get. It’s always a surprise.
What skill is most vital to your job?
Being approachable and relating to my patients, so they feel comfortable and can tell their story with all the details attached. The history is usually where the answer is, so I can’t help them if they don’t’ help me.
What music is on your iPod/iPhone?
The Eagles, Beck, Beyonce, Paco de Lucia
Who would you most like to meet (alive or deceased) and why?
Leonardo da Vinci—he is the quintessential renaissance man. He harmoniously blended art, science and an unending quest for knowledge.
Elizabeth I—she ruled an empire and loved theater, literature and pirates.
What has been your greatest adventure?
Reuniting with and marrying my husband 30 years after we met. That’s an adventure.
What is your favorite word?
At this moment, I like SERENDIPITY