Overcoming the Obstacles that Stand in Your Way with Dr. Michele Meltzer

Michele Meltzer, MD, is currently the Associate Professor of medicine at Thomas Jefferson University. Dr. Meltzer earned her medical school degree from Drexel University College of Medicine and completed her residency from the Presbyterian Medical Center, Philadelphia. She then completed her fellowship from Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia. She also earned a Masters in Bioethics from the University of Pennsylvania. Dr Meltzer has also founded a nonprofit called Rheumatology for All - a continuing medical education course aimed at increasing access to rheumatology care in resource poor areas. Obstacles are inevitable. Dr. Michele Meltzer knows this best, as she’s built a career based on perseverance. And today, she empowers us to put our personal obstacles in perspective—and she shares strategies for tackling them head on. Dr. Meltzer believes that our journey begins when we define what success means to us. And then, to chase after it. Along the way, she urges us to listen open-mindedly to our patients,  to create more inclusive environments in medicine, and to slow down and enjoy the journey. Because when we’re able to relax—we find that we can get more done. Pearls of Wisdom: 1. You can overcome obstacles to get to where you want to go. I love your perseverance and how you encourage others to do the same. 2. Listen to patients. Hear their concerns and act on what they have said. Be proactive in learning their names and details about their lives. 3. Know what you want to do and go for it. Define what success looks like for you.