With the start of school looming in the near future parents are beginning to be inundated with back to school shopping ads for school supplies, clothing, and the necessities like back to school physicals and vaccinations. Luckily for the communities served by Good Shepherd Medical Group (GSMG) getting your child in for an annual physical and vaccination may have just gotten a little easier.
GSMG has announced the addition of pediatrician Allan Damian, MD, just in time for the back to school season.
“We’re excited to welcome Dr. Damian,” said Troy LeGore, vice president of GSMG. “He comes to us from El Paso, Texas, at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, where he completed an internship and residency in pediatric medicine and then stayed on as a pediatrician and as a clinical assistant professor in the pediatrics department. Dr. Damian brings with him the academic skill, diversity, and a passion for serving. All character traits that parents look for in a pediatrician.”
While conversing with Dr. Damian parents will get the sense that his occupation is much more than just a job, it was a calling.
“I didn’t choose to become a pediatrician – pediatrics chose me!” said Damian. “One of my first rotations in residency was in neonatology, which I didn’t have a chance to rotate in medical school. What immediately fascinated me was an experience of a 24-week old baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). I was amazed at how a child so small was able to thrive and succeed and eventually make it home. Years later I remember this same child walking into my office for a physical exam. What a great privilege and honor as a doctor to be able to hold these precious lives in our hands and to care for children. In some cases, I was the first human contact many of these children ever had – even before their parents. I feel that I am a child’s first line of defense which is just amazing!”
Damian talked about his care philosophy.
“My philosophy is, art is long – life is short – make the most of every moment,” he said. “What I mean is this, every single encounter I have with my patients and their families and caregivers is very crucial and very important. Some may think that it is just a routine check-up, but it’s an opportunity for me to make a difference. I’m an advocate for fitness and diet, and living an active lifestyle. I pride myself on being thorough and taking the time and energy to cover a lot in each visit.”
Damian said he was attracted to the staff at Good Shepherd and the weather here.
“I really connected with Good Shepherd,” he said. “The team was friendly, open and honest about the work environment and the community. The community members I have had a chance to interact with have all been very friendly. I also like the scenery here – it’s beautiful – coming from El Paso where it is extremely dry all the time – we have four distinct seasons here in Hermiston and I’m looking forward to that.”
As for his hobbies, Damian is actively involved in cross-fit, collects die cast model airplanes, and has an interest in pursuing outdoor activities, like hiking, and fishing.
Dr. Damian is now welcoming new patients at the Good Shepherd Medical Group Pediatrics office located at 600 NW 11th Street, Suite E-33 in Hermiston. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 541-667-3740.
