Rising Stars: Meet Gurneet Matharoo, MD

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gurneet Matharoo, MD.

Hi Gurneet, Thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The beginning of my journey unfolded when I bid farewell to my hometown of Brantford, Ontario, embarking on a path toward a career in medicine. After completing my Family Medicine Residency at The University of Kansas Medical Center in 2021, the harsh realities of the healthcare system and the burden of student loans hit me hard, as it does for many new doctors. Instead of succumbing to the traditional W2 job, I boldly established my business as an independent contracted physician.

This newfound independence granted me the freedom to pursue my passions finally. I seized the opportunity to work in rural Kansas alongside the remarkable team at Docs Who Care, where I could make a difference in the lives of patients who lacked access to adequate healthcare resources. Moreover, this autonomy allowed me to explore other interests I affectionately refer to as my “hobbies,” such as hosting Botox parties and delving into obesity. Driven by my insatiable thirst for knowledge, it didn’t take long for me to embark on obtaining board certification in Obesity Medicine. Although finding the perfect job to fulfill this aspect of my career proved challenging, fate intervened at the right moment, leading me to partner with Dr. Ekwensi Griffith, DO, and his wife Angela Griffith, RN, at New Health Kansas – a renowned health and wellness clinic. Here, I have the privilege of assisting the local community in achieving their weight loss goals and collaborating with my exceptional team to help them attain their aesthetic aspirations.

In this new chapter of my story, I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way, allowing me to combine my passion for medicine with my desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The challenges I encountered on my journey began with the struggle to excel during my undergraduate studies. I attended an organic chemistry class with over 100 students in a large Canadian college. Coming from a smaller town, I struggled to adapt to this class dynamic, which hindered my ability to learn effectively. One particular incident stands out in my memory. Seeking help and guidance, I approached my Organic Chemistry professor during after-hours. To my dismay, instead of offering support, they discouraged me from pursuing a career in medicine and suggested that I should drop out. This encounter left me disheartened and uncertain about my future. However, I refused to let this setback define me.

Determined to continue pursuing my dreams, I left that college and enrolled in a private premedical program. This change allowed me to find a more supportive and conducive learning environment surrounded by professors who believed in my potential. In this new setting, I was able to thrive and grow. The professors provided personalized attention, fostering an atmosphere of encouragement and support. With their guidance, I regained my confidence and developed a deeper understanding of the subjects I was passionate about. This experience taught me the importance of finding the right learning environment and seeking out mentors who believe in your abilities. It reinforced my belief that setbacks should not deter us from our goals but rather fuel us forward. Through perseverance and the support of dedicated educators, I overcame the challenges I faced during my undergraduate years. This chapter of my journey taught me valuable lessons about resilience, the power of belief, and the importance of finding the right environment to foster growth and success.

Thanks for sharing that. Can you tell us more about your work next?
In addition to my other endeavors, I am also involved in an exciting upcoming project called DesiDocTalk, which focuses on providing healthcare education tailored to the Indian population. Recognizing the unique healthcare challenges and cultural nuances within this community, DesiDocTalk aims to bridge the gap by delivering informative and culturally sensitive content. Through this initiative, we strive to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health. By addressing common health concerns, debunking myths, and promoting preventive care, DesiDocTalk aims to improve overall health outcomes and promote a healthier lifestyle within the Indian community.

I am excited about this project, as it allows me to contribute to the well-being of my heritage while utilizing my medical expertise. Together with a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, we work tirelessly to create engaging and accessible content that resonates with the Indian population. Through DesiDocTalk, we aim to inspire individuals to take charge of their health, seek appropriate medical care, and ultimately lead healthier and happier lives. By providing valuable healthcare education, we aim to make a lasting impact on the well-being of the Indian community.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
Can reach out via [email protected] | Instagram @drmatharoo | stop by at our New Health Lenexa

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.newhealthkansas.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmatharoo/

Image Credits
Samantha Levi