Your Doctor, Up Close
Heather Reiley, MD, Pediatrics, Livingston HealthCare
Why did you decide to become a doctor?
I was studying global health and health systems in college and my experience in hospitals made me realize I didn’t want to learn about doctors- I wanted to be one. I love the intersection of science and humanity.
What’s one health habit you wish everyone would start today?
Less screen time – for both kids and parents! Everyone needs to log off and go outside (myself included!)
If you weren’t a doctor, what would you be doing?
A travel agent I absolutely love planning trips for both myself and for other people. I have a long list of places I want to go, nearby and around the world.
How do you recommend patients prepare for a doctor’s appointment to get the most out of it?
Make a list of questions for the doctor beforehand in order of priority so we can make sure to address your most pressing concerns.
What’s the most challenging part of your job — and most rewarding?
It can be very challenging to disconnect from work at the end of the day – I worry about my patients long after our appointments are over! I also struggle with how much time of my day is spent on a computer charting instead of directly working with patients. The most rewarding part is getting to know my patients and their families, watching them grow up and being there for them at the best and worst days of their lives.
Do you have any personal health habits you struggle to maintain yourself?
Going to bed on time.
What’s your guilty-pleasure food?
Too many to list (sweet tooth!), but I’ll never say no to ice cream.
What’s the one thing you wish patients knew about you as a person?
I’m a new mom and being a parent is the hardest thing I’ve ever done -even as a pediatrician, I’m constantly doubting myself. It truly takes a village.
What’s the funniest excuse you’ve ever heard from a patient for not following medical advice?
Kids have the best excuses. My favorite ones are the most honest ones. Why did you miss your last appointment? “I didn’t want to come see you.”
If you could prescribe one thing to make everyone happier, what would it be?
An extra hour of sleep.