If Adam Moskowitz, MD, was not a cardiologist his back up plan was to become a rockstar. As a native of North Carolina he strongly aligns with UNC’s mission to serve the people of the state. When not at work, you can find Dr. Moskowitz at the beach with his two kids and wife.
What brought you to UNC Medical Center?
I’m fortunate to have been at UNC since the beginning of medical school. Even early on it was clear that this is a very special place. My wife is also a physician and as we progressed through medical school, residency, fellowship, and faculty interviews we continued to choose to stay here at UNC due to the great location, incredible culture and colleagues, and balance between clinical and academic duties. Additionally as North Carolina natives we relish the opportunity to support the mission of UNC Hospital by providing thoughtful, high-quality healthcare for patients across North Carolina.
Where are you from?
Wilmington, NC
Did you always want to be a doctor?
Starting in elementary school the idea of a career in medicine was something that always appealed to me. I’ve always felt most fulfilled when working directly to help others.
How did you choose your specialty?
I love Cardiology for the opportunity to work in multiple settings as well as the wide spectrum of acuity in patient care. The ability to care for patients in the intensive care unit and then later care for the same patients outside of the hospital is something I have always enjoyed. We are fortunate to have great medications and interventions for the cardiovascular system and with new treatments in development every day the field is always at the cutting edge of the latest science.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
Absolutely the long-term, longitudinal patient relationships.
What are some of the new developments in your field of specialty?
Transcatheter based procedures such as percutaneous coronary interventions and valve replacement or repair have come such a long way. As a geriatric cardiologist, many of my older patients are now able to have have necessary valve replacements or other procedures with minimal recovery or hospital time. These patients, who have prohibitive or very high risk of complications during open cardiac surgery, are now able to have definitive treatment of many cardiovascular disease and are now living longer with better quality of life than ever before.
Is there a particular achievement (professional or personal) that has been most gratifying to you?
Hands down I am most proud of my two children (Mac and Maggie). I’ve been fortunate to have enjoyed academic and professional success over the years but nothing can come close to the pride and happiness I feel coming home to them after a long day.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
“Don’t sweat the small stuff”
If you weren’t a physician, what would you like to be doing?
I always joked that my “plan B” was to be a rockstar. If at this point medicine doesn’t work out, be on the lookout for my debut at Cats Cradle.
What hobbies do you enjoy?
I love to travel with my family (especially to the beach), watching sports (especially college basketball and NFL football), avid fan of movies, and learning new cooking techniques.
Do you have a favorite quote or life motto?
I’m not sure it would qualify as a life motto but I always find myself reminding trainees that Medicine is a team sport. It is so important to trust and work together with all members of the care team to provide effective care.
What was the last book you read?
Dune by Frank Herbert