Marc Whitman brings over 30 years of medical practice experience to UNC’s Division of General Surgery. He attended medical school at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago, followed by Residency in General Surgery including certification in Trauma from Shock through University of Maryland Medical Systems. He comes to UNC after practicing as a General/Peripheral Vascular/Trauma Surgeon in Illinois. He will practice UNC-Hillsborough and UNC-Chatham locations. He shared more about his experience and philosophy during his interview.
What brought you to the Department of Surgery at UNC?
It started with a desire for a late-in-life career change. It was sealed after interviewing and meeting all of my wonderful colleagues and the residents of the area who comprise the pool of patients.
What inspired you to become a doctor/surgeon?
At first, I was fascinated by the science of medicine. Then I realized the incredible rewards of helping people with acute surgical illnesses recover and get back to their best.
How did you decide to pursue your current specialty? Has it met your expectations?
I decided to pursue surgery after being exposed to it in medical school. It has been a challenging and rewarding career that I hope to continue for some time to come.
Do you have any pre-surgery ritual?
No. Just some soft music during any lengthy procedure.
If you could pick the brain of someone alive or not, who would it be?
Abraham Lincoln. I used to live near Washington D.C. and Springfield, Il. I always love visiting the memorials and museum. The speeches that are inscribed on the walls of the Lincoln Memorial are incredible.
What are some goals you would like to achieve during your time at UNC Surgery?
I just wish to provide the best possible care to the patients of the health system as part of the team.
What is one thing you wish your patients or coworkers knew about you before they meet you?
That I am not as old as I look, inside and out.
If you give your younger self one piece of advice what would it be?
In this particular occupation, one must work harder to maintain a reasonable work-life balance. The balance is important.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
That I am a word-game fanatic.
Visit Dr. Whitman’s website here.