In the busy health care system, specialists feel the pressures of so many patients waiting to access care. With such hectic schedules, it’s no doubt difficult to present a calm and unhurried face to patients.
One patient wants to applaud her gastroenterologist, Dr. Farhad Peerani, Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Gastroenterology at the U of A, for being a calm presence in her long and difficult health journey.
Her nomination letter describes a warm and compassionate physician who clearly cares about his patients.
“Dr. Farhad Peerani has been a most compassionate, gentle, attentive and learned gastroenterologist for me. When I was finally sent to Dr. Peerani for health care, he wondered why I hadn't taken myself to the hospital by this point in time with the symptoms I was displaying. That began my close-to-4 years under his care.”
“He has listened well to my questions and comments and has always been willing to explain things more than once when I had concerns. If I wanted a deeper explanation, he always respected my need for that. He never made me feel that I was wasting his time with my rehashing of salient points. A request from me for a phone call back was always respected. Because of this transparency in his communication with me, I have flourished under this good doctor's care.”
“Although he must be an extremely busy man, what with all his roles as gastroenterologist, researcher, professor, father and husband, to name the ones of which I am aware, he was always calm and unhurried in his dealings with me.”
“When I sit in my oncology clinic receiving my infusion, I have listened to some patients complain about the poor communication they have with their own specialists. I always tell them what a gentleman ... kind, patient and thoughtful, I have been blessed to find in Dr. Peerani.”
“It is now time for me to move on to another gastroenterologist, and I will miss this blessing that was bestowed upon me the day my path crossed with Dr. Farhad Peerani's. In this day and age where one hears of the stress our health care is under, I would like to shine a light upon a man who has followed his calling with such professionalism and humbleness. Dr. Farhad Peerani is a true leader!”
Here is what Dr. Peerani had to say about his work.
How long have you been practicing medicine?
I have been practicing gastroenterology since July 1, 2016.
Why did you choose to focus your practice on gastroenterology?
My passion for gastroenterology was ignited by the late dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Dr. Richard Fedorak, who was an inspirational physician exemplifying the qualities of an astute clinician, excellent teacher and eminent academic.
What do you find most satisfying about your work?
I enjoy the procedural aspect, which can lend itself to treatments that provide immediate gratification. I also cherish developing long-term relationships with my patients who live with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
About Shine A Light
AMA members get up each day or night and do what you are trained to do: serve patients and provide care. It’s hard work but it is rewarding to know the tremendous impact you and your colleagues can have on your well-being. From soothing bedside manners to advocating for patients, great physicians are changing lives for the better every single day.
The Shine a Light Program recognizes and profiles AMA member physicians who are making a difference in ways such as:
- Spearheading projects that improve patient and/or community life.
- Following/tracking patients diligently to ensure coordinated care.
- Working long hours and adjusting schedules to meet patient needs.
- Contributing to Alberta’s vision of a high-performing health care system.
Know a colleague worthy of some well-deserved recognition? Complete the nomination form, and we’ll ensure they receive it.