Spotlight on Hana Azizi, MD

A skilled and compassionate physician, many of the WFCPC families know Hana Azizi, MD well. Dr. Azizi is Assistant Professor in Rehabilitation Medicine at Columbia University Medical Center's Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, and Director of Pediatric Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R). She cares for both adults and children with cerebral palsy (CP) and has developed special bonds with her patient families.

We caught up with Dr. Azizi on how she relaxes outside of her busy clinic schedule, and as a woman physician leader in the field of PM&R, what she loves about her work and how she encourages others to enter this field.

1) How did you find your way to Columbia?

During my residency, I did a rotation at Columbia Pediatric Rehabilitation and gained experience in the management of patients and procedures. After that, I was a fellow at NYU. Then, in 2017 when Columbia Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) was expanding their team, they reached out to me about an opportunity. I remember meeting Dr. (Joshua) Hyman and Dr. (David) Roye back then, and of course others in the PM&R department, and felt at home. I was thrilled to have an opportunity to work closely with them. That’s how I decided to join Columbia. It’s a great place to be.

2) You work closely with a lot of adults with CP and have developed close physician-patient relationships with them. What have you learned from them?

I really enjoy getting to know my adult patients. Many of my patients have shown how they advocate for themselves and challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about disabilities. For instance, I have adult patients who are actively involved with the community, some have strong social media presence, and some enjoy their life to the full. An important lesson they’ve taught me is the importance of recognizing and celebrating individual stories and strengths in everyone, and to celebrate small achievements. They have shown me the definition of resilience, perseverance and confidence. Through them, I’ve learnt patience and respect.

3) Your work sometimes requires you to stand for long hours and use your hands. How do you look after yourself and make sure that you're staying fit and healthy?

First of all, I eat a healthy diet and like to cook at home. That’s very important. Living in New York, I also enjoy walking and spending time with friends. Yes, the nature of my work is physically demanding so I do yoga to improve my flexibility and strength. But I love to dance. I didn’t take up dancing till I was an adult - I didn’t have the opportunity to dance when I was young. Then I took ballroom dancing lessons and love it!

Most of all, I have a great support system in my clinic from my team. Yes, we have a busy clinic schedule, but I have the support of my nurse practitioner Elisabeth (Bates) and my fellows. I’m so thankful for them!

4) As Fellowship Director for Pediatric Rehabilitation, lot of like women look up to you. But there aren't many women in the field of PM&R. What is your message to them? How do you encourage them to enter the field of PM&R?

PM&R has a wide range of specialties like pediatric rehab, sports medicine, pain management, brain & spinal cord injury, and also women's health. So, if someone goes into PM&R there are many options. The reason I love PM&R is the opportunity to make a significant difference in people's lives. We can help them regain their function and improve their quality of life, which is very meaningful and could be incredibly rewarding. Also, in PM&R, you often have more predictable working hours compared to some other medical specialties, so there is a very good work-life balance.

There is a growing need for female leaders in PM&R. Women leaders in this field can contribute their own perspective and experiences and help to shape the future of PM&R. Ultimately everyone has to pursue what excites them - passion is a powerful motivator. If you love what you do, then it reflects in the care you provide. If you are interested in this field, PM&R could be a very fulfilling path.