Ramchandani Santosh, MD

Get to know Ramchandani Santosh, MD, internal medicine resident.

Career goal: As an internal medicine resident at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), my primary career goal is to become a well-rounded, knowledgeable and compassionate physician who provides the highest quality of care to my patients. I aim to hone my clinical skills and broaden my understanding of various medical conditions to diagnose and treat patients with a wide range of complex health issues. Furthermore, I am passionate about medical education and would like to continue fostering my skills in this area throughout my career. I envision taking on a teaching role in the future, inspiring and mentoring the next generation of physicians. In addition, I am interested in pursuing research opportunities to contribute to the ongoing advancement of medical knowledge and evidence-based practices.

“The LVHN Internal Medicine Residency Program stands out from other programs across the country because of its unique combination of attributes which contribute to a comprehensive and well-rounded training experience for residents.”

What makes your LVHN training program different from others across the country?

The LVHN Internal Medicine Residency Program stands out from other programs across the country because of its unique combination of attributes which contribute to a comprehensive and well-rounded training experience for residents. Some of these key differences includes diverse clinical exposure, strong emphasis on education, focus on research and scholarly activities, emphasis on wellness and work-life balance, comprehensive subspecialty exposure, personalized career guidance, strong community involvement and lastly exposure to street medicine. These key attributes, along with the supportive and collaborative culture at LVHN, create a unique and enriching training environment for internal medicine residents, equipping them with the skills, knowledge and experiences needed to excel in their chosen career paths.

What has been the most extraordinary part of your training experience so far?

As a resident in the LVHN Internal Medicine Residency Program, the most extraordinary part of my training experience so far has been the emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and teamwork. The program actively fosters an environment where residents, attending physicians, nurses, pharmacists and other health care professionals work closely together to deliver the best possible care to our patients.

This collaborative approach not only enhances the quality of patient care but also provides me with invaluable learning opportunities. By working closely with professionals from different disciplines, I have gained a deeper understanding of their roles, responsibilities and perspectives on patient care. Additionally, the program’s commitment to promoting a culture of inquiry and scholarly activity has been unique and particularly rewarding. I have been able to engage in research projects, collaborating with faculty and fellow residents to contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge. This experience has honed my critical-thinking and analytical skills, while also providing me with a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment in knowing that my work has the potential to impact patient care and outcomes. Overall, the unique combination of interdisciplinary teamwork, robust educational opportunities and a strong emphasis on research and scholarly activities has enriched my training experience at LVHN, preparing me to become a well-rounded, competent and compassionate physician.

What is one memory from your training so far that will stick with you for your career?

One memory from my training at LVHN that will stick with me throughout my career is a challenging case involving a critically ill patient with multiple complex medical issues. The patient’s condition deteriorated rapidly, requiring a highly coordinated effort from the entire health care team to stabilize him and manage his care.

As a resident, I was actively involved in the patient’s care, working closely with attending physicians, nurses and other specialists. The team’s collaborative approach, open communication and shared dedication to the patient’s well-being were instrumental in navigating the complexities of the case and ultimately achieving a successful outcome.

This experience taught me the importance of teamwork and effective communication in providing high-quality patient care, especially in critical situations. I also learned the value of staying calm and focused under pressure, and how crucial it is to continually adapt and learn from each challenging case to grow as a physician. I am grateful for the opportunities that the LVHN Internal Medicine Residency Program has provided me to develop these essential skills, which will undoubtedly be vital in my future practice as a physician.

What is one piece of advice you would share with someone as they select a training program?

As you select a training program, my one piece of advice would be to prioritize finding a program that aligns with your personal values, learning style and long-term career goals. Look for a program that offers a supportive and nurturing learning environment, diverse clinical experiences, strong mentorship and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Ensure that the program’s culture and atmosphere foster a sense of community and collaboration, as these factors will greatly impact your overall training experience and well-being during residency.

What does it mean to be a resident at LVHN?

Being a resident at LVHN means being part of a collaborative and supportive community that provides high-quality patient care, fostering personal and professional growth and promoting a culture of learning and inquiry. As an LVHN resident, you are challenged to become a well-rounded, knowledgeable and compassionate physician while being supported by dedicated faculty, mentors and peers who are committed to your success and well-being.