Angel Mier-Hicks, M.D., hematologist and medical oncologist, is now seeing patients at Texas Oncoogy—San Antonio Medical Center. Dr. Mier-Hicks describes the legacy he wants to leave as a physician and what he is looking forward to exploring in San Antonio.
What inspired you to specialize in cancer care?
I was halfway through medical school when my best friend shared he had been diagnosed with cancer. Our lives were forever changed in that moment, and it felt like we had a cascade of questions with no answers. His diagnosis inspired me to take oncology as an elective in school where I got to interact with cancer patients. During my residency, I continued working with a variety of cancer patients. Although my time was mostly instructive, I felt great reward and privilege having the opportunity to interact with patients beyond their diagnosis. These moments confirmed to me my desire to devote my career to serving cancer patients as a hematologist and medical oncologist.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned in your medical education?
Listen to your patients. One of the most valuable things you can do as a physician is to give patients the opportunity to express themselves. Being focused and an attentive listener can help you narrow down the diagnosis and be more effective and precise in creating a workup and management plan tailored to their needs.
What would you like your legacy as a physician to be?
I would like to be remembered as a compassionate, caring, and kind physician for my patients. I want them to know I have their back and will be with them every step of the way.
What are you looking forward to exploring in San Antonio?
Since I just moved here from New York, I am most looking forward to finding new things to do and discover in the amazing city of San Antonio and its surrounding area. Perhaps finding the best tacos or a great park to take my kids to play and go water tubing. This area has a lot to offer, and I am eager to start exploring.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy spending your time doing?
I like to keep myself busy outside of work. After spending time with my wife and two kids, I have a lot of different hobbies I enjoy. I am an avid gardener, starting with just a seed and growing everything from there. I fly dual line or quad line stunt kites, and I love photography and camping, or spending time outside in any way I can. I would also like to start up my hobby of falconry and try kite surfing.
What is your favorite music genre and why?
I do not have a specific favorite genre. However, I like all different kinds of music such as pop music and alternative rock. It really depends on the activity I am doing.
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
I am more of a morning person, but this has definitely changed after having kids. In the morning, I am able to be more productive while also getting to enjoy some quiet time to myself.