
STEPHEN PAPPACHEN, MD '99
Winter Haven Hospital
Stephen Pappachen, Md '99
MEDICAL DIRECTOR, WOUND CARE & HYPERBARIC MEDICINE
WHO INSPIRED YOU TO CHOOSE A CAREER IN MEDICINE?
I was very service oriented growing up. My father always wanted and encouraged me to become a physician because it is a great way to serve others. My father’s desire became my own in college, leading me to pursue a career in medicine.
HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON RUSM FOR YOUR MEDICAL EDUCATION?
My friend (Ross graduate), gave me a very realistic and accurate picture of Ross University; emphasizing the solid academic focus and ample opportunity for the focused, hard working student. I was especially impressed with his focus on the Board (USMLE) pass rates as well as Residency placements. From that, I realized quickly that Ross University, in keeping with the spirit of its Founder (Dr. Ross), is focused on helping individuals achieve their professional goals and dreams.
WHAT DO YOU REMEMBER MOST ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE AT RUSM?
Ross University gave me a great foundation by helping me develop a firm understanding of the Basic and Clinical Sciences. I feel like I received a first class education at Ross, which in turn, prepared me for the challenges ahead. One thing that sticks out my time on the island is Dr. Guha's (Kallol) Histology class. I really enjoyed the class and his description of the "...epeetheeleum [epithelium]" rings in my ears to this day.
WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN DOING SINCE GRADUATING FROM RUSM?
After finishing RUSM, I went on to do my OB/GYN Internship at Medical College of Pennsylvania (MCP) Hahnemann University Hospital located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This was followed by completing my residency at SUNY Health Science Center in Brooklyn, New York. Shortly thereafter, I started my own private practice in Lakeland, Florida. After twelve (12) years after practicing OB/GYN, essentially on my own, I transitioned to practicing Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine.
DESCRIBE ANY VOLUNTEER WORK YOU HAVE BEEN A PART OF.
I have been privileged to offer medical care and services while doing Medical Missions in Haiti. Whenever possible, I participate at information seminars, as well as, serve as a mentor. I think it is important to give back and continue to serve others, especially my alma mater, in any way I can.
LOOKING AHEAD TO THE NEXT 40 YEARS, WHAT ADVICE TO YOU HAVE FOR US?
I am and will always be grateful for the opportunity RUSM gave me to practice medicine. My hope for RUSM is that it continues to do what it does so well, which is to help individuals achieve their professional goals and ultimately achieve their dreams of becoming a physician.