Sibat M. Khwaja MD

What made you want to become a health care provider or what is your earliest memory of wanting to be one?

Growing up, I had a strong desire to help others, a value instilled in me by my parents. Becoming a physician provided me with the opportunity to care for others in their most vulnerable times.

What do you love most about your specialty? / Why did you choose your specialty?

To me, continuity of care is one of the most important and crucial aspects of family medicine. It has allowed me to develop lasting relationships with my patients and with their family members from past, current, and future generations. Every patient is different and the kind of care and treatment they will need will vary. By potentially being able to provide medical care from infancy all the way to end of life, I hope to be a doctor that can provide my patients with trust, comfort, and a mutual understanding to be the best doctor I can possibly be for them.

How do you connect with your patients?

I am a strong believer in a patient-centered decision-making process. Taking medicine itself is not enough to lead a happy and healthy life. Successful management of a patient’s health means acknowledging their values, circumstances, emotional stress factors, and support systems. I like to see my patients as a whole with both their physical as well as mental health in mind and try to come up with a plan that is tailor-made specifically to their needs. When they see my thoughtfulness in this process, I have been able to have a strong connection with my patients.

What are your interests outside of the office (hobbies, activities)?

I have a very loving husband and a beautiful daughter I go home to every day. Watching my daughter grow with her huge personality is my biggest joy in life. I also love to binge-watch shows with my husband, travel, explore restaurants, and occasionally bake the most random desserts!

What is your advice for your patients?

Take care of your mental health, work on having good relationships with your family and friends, and love with an open heart.