During my four-week observership in Internal Medicine with Dr. Saumil Mehta in Plano, Texas, I had the opportunity to gain valuable clinical exposure and deepen my understanding of the U.S. healthcare system. I observed patient interactions, performed general and systemic examinations—including abdominal, neurological, respiratory, and cardiac assessments—and learned about the differences in healthcare between India and the USA. One particularly memorable case was of a patient with poorly controlled diabetes who was hesitant to adhere to treatment. Dr. Mehta took the time to counsel her, explaining the importance of medication adherence and regular check-ups. Seeing how he communicated with empathy and expertise to convince the patient to prioritize her health reinforced how crucial patient education is in achieving better health outcomes.
Dr. Mehta strongly emphasized that history-taking is one of the most fundamental skills a doctor can develop. He explained that a well-structured patient history not only guides clinical decision-making but also fosters a deeper understanding of a patient’s condition. By carefully listening to a patient’s story, a physician can often identify key diagnostic clues that might not be immediately apparent through physical examination or tests. This lesson was invaluable, as I saw firsthand how effective history-taking allowed Dr. Mehta to diagnose and manage cases efficiently. His approach to patient care, combined with his ability to break down complex medical concepts into easily understandable explanations, greatly enhanced my learning experience. Additionally, I gained exposure to the U.S. healthcare system, particularly how insurance policies influence treatment decisions. While I did not use an Electronic Medical Records system, I observed how it plays a vital role in streamlining patient documentation and management.
Beyond the clinical experience, I was deeply touched by the warmth and support of Dr. Mehta’s team, including Dr. Sejat Mehta, Dr. Keith Liu, Toral Ben, Roopal Ben, and Nurse Practitioners Tara, Cath, Priya, Yash, and other staff members. The clinic environment was calm, and welcoming, and felt like home. They helped me search for accommodation, and although the house they usually recommended was no longer available, they continued assisting me in finding a suitable place to stay. During my observership, I also had to travel to Houston to collect my passport, and Dr. Mehta was very understanding, allowing me to take a leave for the trip without any hesitation. His kindness and support in both professional and personal aspects made a significant impact on me. Additionally, I had a valuable discussion with Dr. Keith Liu regarding the residency application process, which provided me with useful insights as I continue preparing for my career in the U.S. I am sincerely grateful to Dr. Mehta, Dr. Liu, the clinic staff, and the Shivani Bhatt Charitable Foundation (SBCF) for making this observership possible. This experience not only enhanced my medical knowledge but also strengthened my confidence in patient communication and clinical decision-making. I look forward to supporting other students in similar ways and contributing to SBCF in any capacity I can.