This National Doctors’ Day, we express our deepest gratitude to those called to this profession. We’re also honored to share personal insights and professional inspiration from our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tammey Naab.

Q: This National Doctors’ Day, tell us about what inspired you to enter this field, what drives you today, and what advice you offer to young people considering pursuing this path?

A: During my senior year of college, my beloved uncle was dying of colon cancer. I felt very frustrated that he had presented at an advanced stage and that there were no options for treatment. I soon decided to pursue a career in pathology because the specialty requires a comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of medicine; it involves solving a series of mysteries. A pathologist needs to use all tools including clinical presentation, imaging studies, and laboratory results to decide how to proceed in working up a challenging case in surgical pathology.

Ultimately, I wanted to enter a profession in which I could make a difference in the outcome of cancer patients’ lives.

“To be a physician, you have to love medicine, helping all people, and solving complex mysteries.”

After spending 30 years in an academic career and having the wonderful and fulfilling opportunity to educate more than 6,000 medical and dental students, I decided to leave academia and pursue a career path which allows me to develop innovative tests using biotechnology to improve treatment options for patients with neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases.

I was blessed to have discovered that opportunity with Ms. Susan Mitchell, an outstanding professional, who has believed in my goals and advocates for the highest quality of care for all populations.

We’re grateful to have Dr. Naab on the Athari team!