Paul M. Lafferty, MD

What is your practice philosophy? Treat every patient as an individual and every problem as unique, using proven evidence-based methods to create customized care recommendations based on the specific needs of the patient.   

What are you passionate about? And why? Family Time, Reading and Physical Fitness. Placing an emphasis on these activities helps me  maintain a healthy work-life balance.      

If I wasn’t a provider, I would be a: Firefighter/Paramedic. I worked in these capacities prior to Medical School and would have enjoyed making it my career if Medicine didn’t work out.     

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? I was a Firefighter/Emergency Medical Technician before and through College. That is where my interest in Medicine began. I first thought of a career as a Paramedic, Nurse or Physician Assistant but ultimately decided to pursue Medical School. I Was exposed to Orthopedics in my 3rd year of Medical School and quickly realized that the hand-on nature of Orthopedic Surgery and ability to immediately solve problems in the Operating Room or Emergency Room were the right fit for me.      

Something I have learned from my patients is: Humility, empathy and the importance of intentional listening     

One of the challenges of this career that I enjoy is (and why):  Complicated problems. I have extensive experience managing complex acute and chronic Orthopedic issues. I have performed many complex primary and revision Arthroplasty and Trauma surgeries in my career. I thrive on the challenges of managing difficult problems. I enjoy the process of working through the situation with the patient, listening to their story, educating them and then formulating and the executing a evidence-based plan for how we will together manage their problem..       

My personal health goal is: Maintain physical fitness through regular weight-training and cardiovascular exercise and healthy eating.      

What is the best thing you’ve done for your health or the best health advice you’ve received? 

Make physical fitness and healthy eating a priority. Many medical issues can be prevented and life can be much more enjoyable by maintaining a healthy weight.