Why Do You Do This Work? Dr. Mark Amsbaugh
Each of us have different reasons we pursued a career in healthcare; recently, leadership has been encouraging our team to focus on our individual motivations behind the work we do for patients and their families. Dr. Mark Amsbaugh, the Director of Radiation Oncology-Texas Medical Center, has share his “why” with us:
For many of us, work is more than just a job, a paycheck, and a place to go when we leave the house. When I think about the difference between a job and a vocation, I am reminded of a piece of advice my father gave me when I was trying to decide on a career. He encouraged me to not focus on the path, but strive to be the best I could with whichever path I chose. This wasn’t about where my skill level started, but the daily improvement I owed to the people who depend on me.
As physicians responsible for patient’s lives, admitting to ourselves that we depend on others to do our job, can be a scary idea. I was initially drawn to Radiation Oncology because of the chance to put my math and science background into clinical practice by using amazing technology to fight cancer. However, I soon discovered the most rewarding part of the specialty is the opportunity to lead a team. This team has a chance not only to care for the disease, but to form meaningful connections with patients during one of the most vulnerable times of their life.
Since starting at UTHealth Neurosciences, I have been surprised by the unbelievable teamwork and dedication of our clinicians, nurses, and staff. As we continue to build world-class programs in the care of patients with brain and spine tumors, the opportunity to work against cancer is extraordinarily gratifying. However, at the end of the day, whether our interactions are routine or heroic, we have the opportunity to make someone’s life better. For me, it is that opportunity and the chance to be better than the day before, that keeps me coming back.
What is your “why”?
Click here to tell us more about what has led you to doing this work!