Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Reshma Khan.
Hi Dr. Khan, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
My journey traces its roots to India, where I was born and received my early education, leading me to my current role as a double board-certified internist and rheumatologist deeply devoted to holistic patient care and medical innovation. Growing up in India provided a tapestry of colorful experiences.
My father, a compassionate veterinarian, and my mother, a dedicated government officer leading health programs for children in small villages, significantly shaped my early values. Their influence instilled in me a profound sense of compassion, community service, and a belief in the transformative power of education and healthcare. As I entered the realm of medicine, rheumatology captured my heart.
The intricate world of inflammatory arthritis and autoimmune conditions became my focus, driving me to become an expert in the field. Engaging in patient care and research projects, I was motivated by a passion for advancing medical knowledge. Today, I proudly lead Palm Beach Rheumatology and Wellness Center, a thriving medical practice situated in the heart of Palm Beach County.
Beyond my clinical practice, I felt a calling to share insights and build a supportive community. I became a writer and a sought-after speaker. Recognizing the importance of collaboration, I founded WRG, a non-profit organization uniting over 1000 women rheumatologists, fostering networking, education, and work-life balance.
My dedication to rheumatology garnered well-deserved recognition, with repeated mentions in prestigious publications such as the American College of Rheumatology’s ‘The Rheumatologist’ and consecutive acknowledgments as Palm Beach Illustrated’s ‘Top Doctor’ for five years, showcasing my significant contributions to the field.
Yet, my commitment to holistic patient care led me to pioneer “Life Energy Coaching.” Recognizing that many patients weren’t experiencing the quality of life they deserved, I sought ways to integrate holistic approaches into my practice. Establishing a dedicated space, I ensured patients had access to a comprehensive mind-body holistic approach alongside traditional medical care.
From my early days in India to the pinnacles of rheumatology, my journey is one marked by passion, dedication, and a commitment to a holistic approach to healthcare. Today, I am proud to continue to make a profound impact on the lives of my patients and the broader medical community.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey has not been a smooth or easy one. As a young girl aspiring to pursue further education, I faced the formidable challenge of relocating to an entirely different country. Adapting to a new culture and language became imperative for my integration into this unfamiliar environment. To gain a comprehensive understanding of healthcare, I committed myself to volunteering in doctor’s offices and conducting research.
In my quest to secure a residency and, subsequently, a fellowship, I diligently studied, achieving a percentile score above 98. Balancing my personal and professional life became a skill I had to master, all while striving for excellence in both domains. Despite the challenges, I take pride in being a role model for my two beautiful children, instilling in them the same strong work ethic I have cultivated.
The journey took an emotional turn during my internship when my son was just two months old, and I had to grapple with leaving him for long work hours. The difficulties persisted during my rheumatology fellowship as I faced secondary infertility and experienced miscarriages before welcoming my daughter. These personal trials, coupled with my roles as a woman, mother, and physician, have shaped a unique perspective on patient care, undoubtedly making me a better doctor.
Encountering remarks about my age and not being taken seriously due to my youth was another hurdle. However, each of these experiences has imparted invaluable lessons, contributing to the person I am today. As a first-generation immigrant, the absence of family support during the challenges of being a working mom was a struggle. Nevertheless, the support of those around me has been a blessing, forming a collective “village” that enables me to provide the best care for my patients.
In the face of these challenges, the gratification derived from a medical practice filled with loving and appreciative patients propels me forward each day. Their positive impact fuels my motivation, inspiring me to continue making a difference in people’s lives.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At Palm Beach Rheumatology and Wellness Center, we are dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate, and state-of-the-art care in a warm and respectful environment. At our center, we specialize in rheumatology and holistic wellness, aiming to set new standards for patients with autoimmune diseases.
What sets us apart is our commitment to individualized treatment plans and spending meaningful time with our patients. I’ve designed this practice to better understand and connect with each patient, addressing their unique rheumatology needs. Our goal is to offer comprehensive and compassionate care, recognizing that every person deserves a personalized approach to their health.
I believe in delivering advanced treatments while also giving each patient the time and resources needed to achieve their health goals. Education is a key aspect of our approach, as I strive to inform patients about their condition, treatment choices, and overall well-being. Informed patients are better equipped to make decisions about their health, and we encourage questions and involvement in the decision-making process.
At Palm Beach Rheumatology and Wellness Center, we go beyond traditional care. Driven by a commitment to holistic approaches, I pioneered Life Energy Coaching, realizing that many patients weren’t experiencing the quality of life they deserved while battling chronic diseases. Our holistic support program addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying factors contributing to rheumatological conditions.
To uphold the highest standards, we meticulously manage our schedule to minimize patient wait times and offer same-day appointments whenever possible. Our dedicated space provides a haven for those seeking a comprehensive mind-body holistic approach alongside their standard medical care. We empower individuals to take control of their health through personalized coaching, diagnostic testing, and supplement discounts.
Our mission is to redefine the approach to autoimmune diseases by adopting a multifaceted strategy. Treatment at our center goes beyond traditional pharmaceuticals, incorporating therapeutic foods, botanicals, supplements, mind-body medicine, and lifestyle changes to stop disease progression and promote healing. We bridge evidence-based medicine with a whole-body approach, setting new standards for comprehensive autoimmune care.
At Palm Beach Rheumatology and Wellness Center, we invite you to experience expert guidance, community support, and a personalized approach tailored to your unique needs and test results. Together, we set new standards for autoimmune disease care and prioritize comprehensive well-being.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
In my journey, community building has been a cornerstone, exemplified by the creation of the Women Rheumatologists Group (WRG) through social media, uniting over 1000 women rheumatologists globally. The power of word of mouth within patient communities has also proven invaluable as a networking tool.
Attending conferences and workshops has allowed me to connect with like-minded professionals. Engaging on social media platforms, following thought leaders, and expressing my mentorship interests have broadened my network. Emphasizing patient education, I seek opportunities to expand my knowledge through lectures and workshops, connecting with experienced professionals in the process.
Taking initiative in reaching out to potential mentors, expressing genuine interest, and persistent follow-ups have been key strategies. Actively participating in online communities and forums has further enriched my network. In the dynamic realm of medical networking, building connections is a two-way street, demanding both patience and authenticity, especially in the specialized field of rheumatology.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.pbrawc.com
- Instagram: @drreshmakhanmd
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/pbrawc
- Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-reshma-khan-md-29b2a365
- Twitter: @drreshmakhanmd
