Parth K. Shah, M.D., urologist, is now seeing patients at
Texas Urology Specialists–Fort Worth Clearfork. Dr. Shah discusses what led him to pursue urology and how his high school physics teacher influenced the way he counsels patients.
1. What inspired you to pursue urology?
Being a urologist allows me the opportunity to treat and build long-lasting relationships with patients of all ages and genders. From a medical standpoint, the field of urology is unique in that both surgical and medical management are provided by the same physician. I can offer my patients interventions of all types, from complex operations to robotic, minimally invasive procedures and the full range of treatments in between. Ultimately, the field of urology has always been on the leading edge of technological innovation, which is the part that appeals to me most.
2. What do you think the future of urology treatment will look like?
The future of urology will reflect that of our society. It will be driven by innovation and the integration of new technologies to create positive change in our collective health. For example, urologists may be able to leverage imaging-driven treatment in combination with artificial intelligence to improve patient outcomes.
3. What are you most proud of when you reflect on your medical career to date?
I am most proud of the fact that I have been able to retain my true sense of self and passion for medicine. I absolutely love what I do and have not let that spark diminish. I attribute my continued excitement for my work to the valuable leadership experiences I had early in my career, as well as my involvement in the teaching and mentorship of medical students.
4. What is the number one item on your bucket list you’d like to achieve this year?
I want to start playing hockey again. I grew up playing sports but had to shift my priorities during my medical training. Now, watching my sons participate in sports has reignited that passion in me. My oldest son is in the process of learning to play hockey, which has inspired me to dust off my old equipment and get back on the ice.
5. If you weren’t a doctor, what would you be?
This is a tough question. During my undergraduate studies and even in medical school, I had a tremendous interest in humanities and ethics. I enjoyed these subjects so much that I chose to double major in biology and religious studies in college and then obtained a certificate in medical humanities and ethics. So if I weren’t a doctor, I could perhaps envision myself as a professor in one of those fields.
6. Do you have a daily morning routine?
It is difficult to maintain a morning routine, since my mornings are often focused on my sons, ages three and six. Additionally, being a surgeon, I tend to go to clinic early. I do, however, have an evening routine. Every night after the kids go to bed, I work out and spend time with my wife talking about the day and catching up on the news.
7. What was your favorite subject in high school?
This is another tough one. I liked all the subjects I studied in high school. However, if I had to choose one, it would be physics. I loved it because my teacher made the content so relatable and easy to understand. Even today, the way I counsel patients is inspired by his teaching style, because a good doctor — just like a good teacher — can make any subject clear and easily accessible.