Vikas Patel was born and raised in central New Jersey. For university, Vikas attended Rutgers University where he earned his undergraduate degree in biological science and then subsequentially attended medical school. After medical school, he completed his neurology residency at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia with a focus on cerebrovascular disease. He then went on to complete a fellowship in vascular neurology fellowship at University Hospital at New Jersey Medical School and endovascular neurosurgery fellowship at Westchester Medical Center. He has written a book chapter on endovascular stroke treatment and contributed to research publications regarding endovascular treatment for intracranial aneurysms. Vikas Patel currently resides in New Jersey where he spends his days doing research within his field. When he is not working, he enjoys partaking in his various hobbies which include sports, running, traveling, and outdoor activities.
What keeps you motivated?
Knowing that I have the ability to help others and positively impact their lives is enough motivation for me. In my profession, I believe that this is the most important form of motivation as it ensures that you will work your hardest for each of your patients.
How do you motivate others?
I motivate others in multiple ways. I try to be an extremely positive person, and I motivate others with great communication skills and providing people/patients with positive feedback and encouragement. I also try to lead by example with hard work, dedication, and a detail orientated, meticulous approach to my profession which I hope that others will emulate.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I got my inspiration from my grandmother and mother, as they are selfless individuals who aspire to help others and give as much as they can. Additionally, I also get inspiration from my patients. All my patients are going through trying times and it is inspiring to see how hard they work to beat their struggles.
Who has been a role model to you and why?
My father has been my role model, because he has meticulous routine-based approach to his life, and he was very successful following a regimented daily routine. He also has a very even keeled attitude despite facing challenges and adversity, which has helped him succeed. I have learned many of my best attributes from him and I strive to emulate him in my work every day.
How do you maintain a solid work life balance?
I maintain a solid work life balance by spending time with my family. But truthfully all my patients are my family, and I treat them as I would any family member. Once I meet a patient, I always aim to stay connected with them. I believe that this not only helps me maintain a good work life balance but also helps my patients feel safer and happier around me.
What traits do you possess that makes a successful leader?
I have a regimented daily routine and I work extremely hard, both of which set an excellent example for others to follow. I have always believed that the best way to lead is by example.
What suggestions do you have for someone starting in your industry?
My suggestion would be to work hard, be determined, have a positive attitude, stay even keeled and resilient when facing adversity and challenges. In our industry, you will have to work extremely long hours at times, and it is important that you are motivated and understand what your end goal is or else you will burnout from the work.
What is your biggest accomplishment?
My biggest accomplishment is finishing my fellowship in endovascular neurosurgery as I was on call about 28 days a month and worked more than 120hrs per week during my training for 2 years. While it was an extremely long two years, the payoff was well worth the cost and the feeling of finally completing my fellowship was all the more rewarding for it.
Outside of work, what defines you as a person?
I’m an extremely positive person who believes that positivity and encouragement can significantly impact others and can help patients recover from disease. Additionally, I believe that outside of work I am defined by my hobbies. When I am not working you will find me outdoors or travelling.
Explain the proudest day of your professional life.
Every day I am practicing is a proud day for me as long as I know I am making a positive impact the lives of my patients. That is what being a doctor is all about – improving the lives and helping our patients. Being able to see my patients leave happier and/or healthier than they were before is the greatest satisfaction.