Gold Humanism Honor Society

Mentorship Moments with Dr. Amarnath

Welcome to Mentorship Moments, a special opportunity for GHHS members to seek guidance and insight from Dr. Shivantha Amarnath, a physician dedicated to mentoring the next generation of medical professionals. In this exclusive “Ask Dr. Amarnath” column, members can submit questions and receive thoughtful responses. Whether it’s via email or through responses shared in the Gold Connection Newsletter, this space is designed to provide valuable advice, support, and mentorship for all those in the GHHS community.

About Dr. Shivantha Amarnath

Shivantha Amarnath, MD, is an esteemed Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist with a deep commitment to advancing compassionate, patient-centered care. He received his medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine and completed his residency training followed by fellowship training in the field of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell at Staten Island University Hospital. Dr. Amarnath is currently a practicing physician at Berkshire Health Systems, where he specializes in the complex care of adult patients. A proud member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society, Dr. Amarnath’s dedication to humanism in medicine is evident in his practice, where he consistently strives to provide kind, safe, trustworthy care.

“…I believe exceptional patient care begins with truly listening. Each individual has a unique story, and understanding their concerns, goals, and values forms the foundation for compassionate, personalized care. I strive to create a collaborative environment where patients feel empowered to ask questions and actively participate in their treatment plans…”

Dr. Amarnath was eager to host a column due to his strong desire to mentor and support the GHHS community, drawing on his extensive experiences and commitment to fostering compassionate, patient-centered care in his practice.

Read more on Dr. Shivantha Amarnath.

Submit Your Question

Dr. Amarnath is here to offer guidance on a wide range of topics, including navigating the challenges of medical training, career development, work-life balance, leadership, and personal growth. His insights will help you move forward with confidence, whether you’re a medical student, resident, or early-career professional.

Example Questions You Can Ask Dr. Amarnath

To help you think about the kinds of questions you may want to submit, here are some examples based on various themes:

  • Personal Background: “I’m a first-year resident and feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to be perfect. How can I manage stress while still excelling?”
  • Current Challenges: “As a medical student, I’m struggling with time management. What strategies do you recommend to balance studying, self-care, and other responsibilities?”
  • Goals and Aspirations: “I want to specialize in cardiology, but I’m unsure if I should pursue research or clinical practice. What factors should I consider when making this decision?”
  • Areas to Improve: “I find it difficult to communicate effectively with patients, especially in emotionally charged situations. Do you have tips for improving my communication skills?”
  • Learning Style or Preferences: “I learn best through hands-on experience, but my rotations don’t offer as much direct patient interaction. How can I make the most of these experiences to continue learning?”
  • Mentorship Experience: “I’ve had a few mentors during my training, but I’m not sure how to develop a more meaningful relationship with them. Any suggestions?”
  • Professional Environment: “My medical school has a competitive atmosphere, and I find it difficult to collaborate with peers. How do you maintain healthy professional relationships in a competitive environment?”
  • Other Interests: “I have a passion for public health and am considering combining it with my clinical training. How can I integrate both interests in my career path?”