John F. Wheary, DO

A team approach to care is key. It isn’t just one individual who takes care of patients – nurses and support staff are so important, because doctors cannot do it single-handedly. It all has to click to ensure patients get the best care.

I had several experiences growing up, and later when I was in college, that influenced my choice of medicine as a career. The first time I came in touch with the medical system was when I was a young boy. I used to go to my grandfather’s house after school every day, and one day when I got there, he was on the floor. He had suffered a stroke. The only thing I could think to do was call 9-1-1. The ambulance crew arrived and he was whisked away to the hospital. From that day on, he always said I saved his life. The neighborhood where I grew up was near a hospital. My friends and I would ride our bikes over there all the time to watch the ambulances come and go, and sometimes we would get to see the medical helicopter take off and bring back patients. I was impressed with the efficiency of the system and thought it looked exciting. The idea of becoming a doctor, or at least someone in the medical profession, was taking root. Eventually I went to college – I was the first person in my family to ever get to do that. I was still pondering the idea of becoming a doctor but wasn’t sure I could do it. A family friend, who happened to be a surgeon, knew of my interest and one day told me, “If someone else can do it, why not you?” That really struck me, “Why not?” It was a goal that over time became more within my grasp, and whenever there was an opportunity to learn more about medicine, I took it.

I believe it is important to be involved in your community in some way. I donate time as the medical director for the Bushkill Township EMS. I help the EMTs set goals for the coming year and help them achieve them as best I can. When I have time, I also speak to school classes or groups about careers in medicine. There are many opportunities in health care, and I want to let them know they should consider this ever-changing field as they contemplate their futures.

I really enjoy camping! The whole activity is relaxing and peaceful to me. There’s no phone, no electronics – it’s just friends, kids, the stars and a crackling fire to cook your food. It’s a complete break from the busy cycle of everyday life and it really helps me recharge and revive.