Shamir, internal medicine a fit

Dr. Kenath Shamir of Southcoast Health was recently honored as the 2016 Community Clinician of the Year by the Bristol South District Medical Society, recognizing his professionalism and contributions as a physician.

What influenced you to go into medicine?

I was always good at and enjoyed science in school. I was inspired by my grandfather as well, who graduated from the University of Bologna (Italy) medical school in the 1930s and practiced primary care.

Why did you choose to specialize in internal medicine?

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While attending medical school, I was enchanted by all the specialties and had a difficult decision to make. However, I most enjoyed the challenge of making and treating a diagnosis, as well as the long-term care of my patients with these problems, so internal medicine was a perfect fit.

Is there an area of research of particular interest to you?

I enjoy reading about many aspects of modern medical studies. The miniaturization of medical interventions over the years in a multitude of specialties is most fascinating to me.

What is most rewarding about your work? What is most challenging?

The most rewarding part of my work is succeeding in assisting people with multiple symptoms into managing their own medical problems. The most challenging part is the many roadblocks that prevent this goal; whether it be a patient’s time or finances, or the need to aggressively advocate on behalf of a patient if the cost of a treatment is expensive and the insurance company is resisting.

Can you name something about you that people might not readily know?

I emigrated to the USA at the age of 6, having been born in Israel. English quickly became my primary language and I was able to graduate with my doctorate by the age of 23 from Boston University’s six-year program. •

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