Diaa Osman, D.O., MPH, hematologist and medical oncologist, is now seeing patients at Texas Oncology–Austin Lakeway and South Austin. Dr. Osman shares how the power of his patients has inspired him and what he looks forward to most about returning to the great state of Texas.
Did you always know you wanted to be a doctor, specifically specializing in cancer care?
My passion for medicine was inspired by my parents. My father was an obstetrician/gynecologist and my mother a pediatrician. Their admirable service to their patients and community established my desire to practice medicine early on. My dream of becoming a doctor was solidified my senior year of college after my motor vehicle accident. The team of doctors who cared for me during recovery were remarkable. I started to consider cancer care after my mentor and friend fought metastatic bladder cancer. He encouraged me to pursue oncology after seeing my deep interest and understanding of the field. I knew in that moment I wanted to play an active role in caring for patients fighting cancer.
What inspires you most about the cancer patients you’ve worked with?
Fundamentally, I believe the most inspiring attribute of a cancer patient is their powerful hope that guides our treatment path. Every cancer patient demonstrates an inspiring amount of determination, resilience, patience, strength, positivity, humanity, and desire to fight. I am grateful to the hundreds of families who I have had the privilege to work with since I started my career.
What are you the proudest of when you reflect on your medical career to date?
I am most proud of my holistic and intuitive approach to cancer care. I strive to create individualized treatment plans that provide patients with quality care and innovative therapies that complement each patient's philosophy and goals to achieve the best possible outcome.
What are you most looking forward to about returning to Texas?
I am most looking forward to the wide open spaces of Texas and the state’s diversity of people and food. I am excited to return and see what is in store during this next chapter of my life, both professionally and personally.
Where is your favorite place you’ve ever travelled to?
This is tough to say. I have many favorite places. If I had to pick, the first places that come to mind are Florence, Italy, Lake Louise, Canada, and Giza, Egypt.
What is your hidden talent?
I would say my hidden talent is photography. It is one of my passions, and I love doing this outside of work.
What song best describes you?
The songs I believe best describe me are “No Woman, No Cry” by Bob Marley and “I'm Still Standing” covered by Taron Egerton.