Why practice in a smaller city rather than a bigger one?

Many people think doctors in larger cities are superior in some way. I like the relationships I build with my patients, colleagues and coworkers in a smaller town. On my off time, many of our friends are my colleagues, coworkers, and patients. My personal and professional worlds blend imperceptibly together. Some people do wrongly assume that physicians in the bigger city somehow "know more" or are "better doctors." I think it's more important for a doctor to know the local climate and issues. Also, that physician, I think, is more likely to really care about the personal aspects of his patients as they will likely run into each other at the mall, grocery store or social functions. I like that interaction. It's great to see someone I operated on doing well.

What specifically attracted you to this area?

I can visit Erie, Pittsburgh or Philadelphia to see family and friends. I can also get to Baltimore, Washington or even New York City in a relatively short time, but I don't have to live in any of those places.

There's a seemingly endless amount of local culture and diversity right outside my door. I like my 10- to 15-minute drive to work, people are friendly, crime is relatively low, and life is fairly easy. I can be involved in a top-rated practice and hospital setting that is professionally challenging and fulfilling, but on weekends I can enjoy the outdoors and my family without many real hassles.

What do you feel are this area's biggest strengths?

The people are, in general, hardworking, straightforward, and honest. They tend to appreciate being helped, and the rate of satisfaction and personal interaction is high. It is a great population to treat, and the medical community is top notch and very helpful.