Careers in Family Medicine: Military Medicine

We are continuing our blog series Careers in Family Medicine. Each week, I will highlight a family physician and their career path. Each one will share their pearls. So far, we have highlighted examples of Rural Practice, Value Based Care, Academic Medicine, US Department of State, Multi-specialty group and Leadership, Direct Primary Care, FQHC practices, Hospital Medicine, Tribal Health, and Concierge Practice in an Academic Setting. This week we take a look at Military Medicine, highlighted by the career of Dr. Haroon Samar.

The views expressed are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy of the Department of the Army, the Department of Defense or the U.S. Government.

Haroon, please give the readers an overview of your career in family medicine.

I grew up in Texas and received a liberal arts education at Austin College in Sherman, Texas. I earned a Master of Public Health from the University of Texas School of Public Health, which was an early exposure to the social determinants of health. This was a key reason for becoming a primary care physician, and I was attracted to family physicians’ contextual approach to caring for patients. I went to medical school at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Maryland—a federal health science academy with the mission to train healthcare professionals for the Department of Defense. I returned to Texas to complete my residency training in Family Medicine at the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, Fort Cavazos, in central Texas.

What are the benefits of serving in the military as a family physician, both personally and professionally?

Military medicine is a unique field of medicine, and as an active-duty military officer, I am part of both the profession of medicine and the profession of arms. The Military Health System consists of military service members and civilian employees that serve in the U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force to support the unique mission of the Department of Defense.  

As an Army Family Physician, I have enjoyed multiple opportunities for growth and development as a physician and a leader. I benefited from a world-class undergraduate and graduate medical education and completed further training as a Madigan Leader & Faculty Development Fellow. I matured in professional opportunities to serve in a clinic leadership role, as residency faculty, and in support of military operations as the senior medical officer in an infantry brigade.

In addition to medical education, my professional military education has included courses and schooling to develop the skills needed to lead a diverse team, think critically, and plan for operations in austere conditions. As a Battalion and Brigade Surgeon (senior medical officer), I deployed to Afghanistan in 2016 and 2018 to provide care for Soldiers in my unit, advise commanders on medical and health-related issues, and serve as a clinical supervisor for our healthcare team.

In my clinical assignments as a staff family physician, I provide care to service members, their families, and military retirees. It is a privilege to care for those who have served our Nation.  Being part of the military community, as an Army Family Physician, I get to walk this journey with military families and Soldiers, from infants to older adults.

What have been the challenges?

Some challenges in the Military Health System are similar to those in the broader U.S. healthcare system, such as the current shortage of nurses and limited availability of behavior health providers nationwide. Other challenges can be more unique as an Army physician. For example, I have changed roles every two to three years, going from more clinical to administrative assignments and back to clinical and academic positions. These transitions have required some flexibility and have been accompanied by a learning curve. However, I have also been supported by teammates, supervisors, and mentors who have helped me gain knowledge and skills with training and support.

Additionally, we moved to a different state every 4-5 years since graduating from residency. This has its own challenges for military families to establish new social networks, jobs, and schools with each change of duty station. Though challenging at times, we, as an Army family, have found that moving also allowed us to explore different parts of the country and get to know people from various backgrounds.

What specific approaches do you take to enhance your personal and professional fulfillment and joy?

Reflecting on my purpose and professional mission in times of change and uncertainty helps maintain a sense of fulfillment and joy in my work.  Seeing myself as a small part of a bigger mission (both as an Army Officer and a Family Physician) helps me with day-to-day tasks.

Any tips for those looking at their first job (or those who are looking to pivot) on how to decide?

Reflect on where you find joy in Family Medicine. Consider what professional activities and practices align with your purpose and professional goals. Re-examine these ideas intermittently as an individual and a team to ensure your practice and organization stay the course. This practice of reflection and action is further enhanced with feedback from a mentor or trusted colleague.

Are there any tips or perspectives you'd like to share with readers wondering about a career with the US Military?

A career in the military is rewarding because of the enormous opportunities for growth and development as a physician and a leader. There are many unique challenges when serving in the military. One thing is certain, as you progress in rank and responsibility, you are expected to step up, get better, and train harder. I joined the military because the Army gave me an opportunity to achieve my dream of becoming a doctor, and I have stayed past my obligation because regardless of where the Army has sent me, I am always part of a cause bigger than myself and my steadfast teammates have made the job worthwhile.

Any other things you’d like to share?

I am married to my wife Mahwish, a clinical pharmacist, who has walked this path with me and made sacrifices in her career and personal life to ensure we can continue serving our country. As busy professionals, we are building a family and enjoying the adventures of being new parents.

Great! Thank you for taking the time to share your wisdom with the readers. 

So many inspiring family physicians with a broad range of skills! Next week the series continues by highlighting Traditional Private Practice with Dr. Debbie Kolb. Stay tuned! Don't miss any in this series; sign-up to have them delivered to your inbox. 

Until then - Have a joy-filled week!  Tonya