Dr. Shamir Chandarana

A light for cancer patients

Physicians are used to providing the care, so when the physician becomes the patient, they have a unique perspective on the health care system and those working within it.

Recently, a physician found herself battling thyroid cancer and was referred to Dr. Shamir Chandarana, a surgeon with the section of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery (U of C), for treatment. While the patient wishes to maintain her privacy, she was compelled to ensure Dr. Chandarana was recognized for the excellent care he provided.

Here are some excerpts from her nomination letter:

“Dr. Chandarana is skilled at his work as he has performed a complex surgery with utmost diligence, precision and competence. Not only is his technical knowledge commendable, his kind and empathic bedside manner really is the icing on top. He has always taken the time to listen, provided his professional opinion, been open to hearing my thoughts, showed empathy in my situation and treated me like I matter. He brings humanness in surgery by relating at the level of the patient. Dr. Chandarana explained the risks and benefits of the surgery he performed and then followed up closely, addressing things as they came along. He was diligent in setting up follow up and physiotherapy post surgery and did not rush me out despite the capacity pressures in our overburdened healthcare system. He adjusted his schedule to provide me with care that best suited my needs. Dr. Chandarana put me before anything else and that’s what made all the difference for me. He embodies the attributes of a great physician - an empathic communicator, an advocate, a leader, a collaborator, and a medical expert.”

Continue reading Dr. Chandarana's Shine A Light profile (Alberta Doctors' Digest, July-August 2022)

About Shine A Light Initiated by Dr. Alison Clarke during her 2018-19 term as AMA President, Shine A Light recognizes and profiles AMA member physicians who are making a difference by: Spearheading projects that improve patient and/or community life Diligently following/tracking patients to ensure coordinated care Working long hours and adjusting schedules to meet patient needs Contributing to Alberta’s vision of a high-performing health care system Do you know a physician who goes above and beyond to care for his/her patients? If yes, please complete the Shine A Light nomination form.