Description
Get to know Dr. S. Thomas Kang, a surgeon at UAMS Health. In the Q&A below, Dr. Kang shares what inspired his work in healthcare, his life outside of medicine, and more.
Questions and Answers
What inspired you to work in healthcare?
As an immigrant, the avenues to have access to a reliable career can be at times limited. My parents encouraged me to seek ways to careers that can provide longevity and also make positive contributions to society.
What is the best part of your job?
My partners and clinic staff are great. The people I get to work with in the operating room (staff and residents) also add to the “fun” aspect of my every day. At the end of the day, being able to help patients who sometimes have nowhere else to turn is probably one of the more gratifying experiences.
What do you like about working at UAMS?
I think the people I interact with the most (partners, residents, OR staff, and clinic staff) really try to put in their best effort to bring about the best outcome for our patients.
Who has had the biggest influence on your life, and why?
My mother had the biggest influence on my life. If it were not for her glioblastoma diagnosis and eventual death when I was a junior surgical resident, I would not have pursued colorectal surgery. I wanted to help patients with cancer.
What book, podcast, TV show, or activity are you enjoying right now, and why?
I have been reading biographies of historical figures (i.e., Genghis Khan, Theodore Roosevelt, etc.). I think to indirectly witness the adversities of figures who were able to leave their names behind long after they left the Earth can provide perspectives that are easy to ignore or miss in our busy daily lives.
I also enjoy staying active. I’ve been going to the gym almost every morning since chief year of residency. It keeps me focused and is a great way to decompress.
What is one thing on your bucket list?
To be a good father to my sons and to be a good husband to my wife.