July 2009
Nick Furiasse, MD
- PGY2
- Winner of 5 teaching awards in 2008-2009
- Medical School: Georgetown University
view pdf
Research Interests:
Internal medicine has always appealed to me because it allows a physician to pursue multiple areas of interest. From my experiences as medical student and resident, I have developed a particular interest in the field of cardiovascular medicine. Within cardiovascular medicine, my focus is with preventative and general cardiology. As the field becomes more and more technical, I find the "old art" of cardiology the most intriguing aspect. My research will primarily focus on preventative cardiology. In addition to cardiovascular medicine, delivering medical care to underserved populations has been an interest of mine since high school. Access remains a substantial barrier to receiving health care services in many urban and rural areas of America. My clinic in an underserved community of Chicago allows me to serve and study the differences in patient populations and the delivery of health care. I believe that care of the underserved population is the duty of every physician. Education has always been a vital part of internal medicine and a particular interest of mine. Teaching students, residents and patient's has been the most exciting aspect of being a physician. Education has moved from books and didactics to simulated modules and internet learning. I plan to continue improving my "traditional" teaching skills and explore new methods in the information age.
What should prospective Northwestern residency applicants know about our program?
Northwestern Memorial Hospital is a placed shaped by its leadership and the community that it serves. It is vital aspect of health care delivery to the city of Chicago. I find Northwestern to be a place that reflects its Midwest values--friendly, hard working and humble. There is a commitment to practice the best medicine in the world and advance the field through research. However, the quality that separates Northwestern from most top academic centers is the people. Most of the attendings, residents and staff are not only great physicians but also great people and mentors. Northwestern is an academic center that continues to strive for excellence in all aspects of medicine. The internal medicine residents truly are a great group of physicians and people. Dr. Wayne has chosen a group of people that meet her standards of being "nice, smart and hard working." There is a camaraderie among the residents that makes the program unique. Residents are willing to help at any time without any questions asked. The residents strive to be the best physician, best teacher, best researcher and best person that they can be. A quiet and non-intimidating motivation exists that drives a resident to strive to be the best. I have found the residents to indeed be nice, smart, hard working and fun. A Northwestern internal medicine resident is a great physician and more importantly a great person. As a Northwestern resident, I am proud of our patient care, education and research. However, it is the sense of community that makes me want to stay a part of the institution. I encourage you to observe the morning report room when you visit because it is a perfect portrayal of our program. Among the academic and research accomplishments on the wall, you will see pictures of residents enjoying weddings, celebrations, golf outings, etc. It is the emphasis on professional and personal development that makes Northwestern the best place to train.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years, I plan to pursue further training in cardiovascular medicine. This further training may include a focus on preventative and possibly geriatric cardiology. I hope to be in the Midwest treating a population that truly is a pleasure to serve. In addition to my clinical skills, I see myself continuing to develop my educational ability to become a better teacher to my residents, students and patients. In 10 years, I hope to be an associate faculty at an academic teaching center where I can pursue my interests in cardiovascular medicine, education and community service.
