Get to Know Your Peers: Marilyn Katz, MD, FACP

Marilyn Katz MD, FACPMarilyn Katz, MD, FACP
Associate Professor of Medicine, University of Connecticut School of Medicine

Director for Career Advising, University of Connecticut School of Medicine
Faculty Co-Director for Student Affairs, University of Connecticut School of Medicine
Lead Physician, Farmington General Internal Medicine, University of Connecticut School of Medicine

1. Why did you choose Internal Medicine?

I chose internal medicine to be an outpatient primary care physician and to take care of patients over the course of their adult lives. I also chose it to be able to utilize a wide breadth of medicine in my daily practice.

2. What trends are you seeing in your day-to-day practice (with patients, the health care system, or otherwise)?

I’m seeing a trend of frustration (in both patients and physicians) in the inefficiencies of the system, including paperwork and lack of access. I’m also noticing recognition by patients (and, thankfully, my organization!) of the importance and value of primary care.

3. What do you want to accomplish professionally within the next five years?

I want to be promoted to full professor and become more comfortable with research/scholarship so I can be a better mentor to junior faculty.

4. Can you share a brief (and anonymous) patient encounter or professional situation that made you proud to be an Internal Medicine physician?

Last week, I saw an 85-year-old patient for an annual wellness visit. When we were wrapping up the visit, he thanked me for working up his gross hematuria a few years ago. He had mentioned it in passing, not thinking it was a big deal, but it prompted a quick workup and referral to urology. He wound up with a complete bladder removal for bladder cancer and is completely cancer-free now.  It reminded me of the importance of being present and thorough with history taking, as patients don’t always recognize worrisome signs or symptoms on their own.