In the September-October 2021 issue of Alberta Doctors’ Digest, we introduced Dr. Neha Chadha, a dedicated family physician in Edmonton, through our Shine A Light initiative. She was nominated by a grateful patient, Paula.
Despite being early in her career, Dr. Chadha impressed Paula with her compassionate care, willingness to learn and dedication to managing Paula’s complex autoimmune condition. Paula, a former health care professional, praised Dr. Chadha for her advocacy, prompt referrals and empathetic approach, calling her “a physician who makes all the difference.” Paula added, “Even my specialists have remarked on what an excellent GP I have.”
Now, Dr. Chadha has been nominated a second time, this time by her patient Sania, for the same unwavering commitment to high-quality care. “I have been seeing her for the past few years. She is the best doctor. She has changed my life as I had a lot of medical issues. I can trust her with my life,” Sania shared.
Dr. Chadha’s inspiration to pursue medicine came from a childhood experience where a doctor’s kind words made her feel empowered, and she strives to offer the same reassurance and support to her patients. You can read more about this formative moment in her first nomination. Below is an update on Dr. Chadha and her journey since.
How many years have you been practicing medicine?
I am currently in my ninth year of practice.
What is your area of practice/specialty?
Comprehensive family medicine with a special focus on women’s health.
Why did you choose to focus your practice on your particular specialty?
I love the continuity of care aspect the most. I know my patients and grow with them. I often share laughs, sorrow, quick chats about life and family with my patients, all while trying to be the best doctor I can be.
Women’s care – such as IUD insertions, Pap tests and endometrial biopsies – can sometimes be difficult or time consuming to access. My mentor in residency taught me how to do these procedures, and I now provide these very essential services to other women inside and outside of my regular practice.
What do you find most satisfying about your work?
I hope I’m making a difference in my patients’ lives beyond just the medical aspect. I know many of my patients have certainly made a difference in mine.
About the Shine A Light Program
The AMA’s Shine A Light Program allows individual patients or community members to recognize AMA member physicians for the following:
- Providing exemplary care that made a difference in a patient’s life.
- Spearheading projects that improve patient and/or community life.
- Contributing to a high-performing health care system.
Do you know a physician who goes above and beyond to care for his/her patients? You can nominate them for the Shine A Light program on the AMA website.