Paulina Thanawala, DO

When I was growing up in Poland, my mother used to always tell me, 'Ucz sie i pracuj bo nauka to potegi klucz.' Translated in English, it means, 'Learn and work hard because knowledge is the key to success.'
I was ten when my family and I moved to Chicago. My father told us the United States was the land of opportunities, and with hard work our dreams would come true. I aspired to be a physician since I was little. As I grew up, that dream slowly became a reality. When I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in biology and psychology at DePaul University, I was the first one in my family to graduate from college. After completing my medical degree at Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine at Midwestern University, my husband and I came to Texas, so I could complete my residency in family medicine at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.
My desire to become a family medicine physician stemmed from the way our family physician cared for one of my family members during a lengthy illness. Our family doctor provided support, recommended a new test, medication, supplements, dietary change, and taught us about new research. The experience made me realize it is a great gift to be able to care for individuals in their most vulnerable state.
The beauty of family medicine is that you get to build relationships with a patient's entire family. I am excited to see the grandma, grandpa, grandkids, and parents. I also enjoy being a support system for my patients when they have to see multiple specialists. I can help synthesize all the information to make sure nothing is missed from a medical management standpoint so patients can reach their optimal health.
I want to be the physician who provides comprehensive and continual support to my patients throughout their lives. I know what it takes to care for someone who is chronically ill. I want to be an ongoing source of support'the person my patients can count on to do the necessary research to find the best treatments options and provide the best quality care. There is no greater satisfaction than seeing hope return to someone's eyes when they thought all their treatment options have been exhausted
For me, communication is key to great patient care. Open, honest dialogue creates a partnership between me and my patients. It not only fosters trust and better relationships, it helps improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. I truly looking forward to providing the members of our community with the best possible quality of care.
When I'm not seeing patients, my husband and I enjoy spending time with our baby boy and traveling. We're also big foodies, so like to indulge our culinary passions by cooking and trying new restaurants.