Alexa Calcagno, DO

Why Emergency Medicine?

I love how EM physicians are on the front line of seeing an undifferentiated patient, and they have the ability to determine the outcome and quality of a patient’s care. Additionally, due to the vast variety of patients in the ER, EM physicians balance performing quick, decisive treatment to stabilize one patient with having a candid, compassionate discussion with another patient throughout a shift. And, of course, there’s lots of opportunity for procedures!

 

Why did you choose UT Health?

Number one was the quality of the residents and faculty! It was clear that the residents were all incredibly hardworking and supportive of one another, and I appreciated how much the residents truly enjoyed spending time together. With the faculty, I could see how much they genuinely supported the learning and goals of the residents, were receptive to feedback, and emphasized early autonomy for the residents. Additionally, I really valued the high volume and high acuity of patients, as well as the huge diversity of the patient population. I could also see there was plenty of opportunity to practice Spanish, and my hope was to have opportunity to increase my medical Spanish proficiency. Finally, I loved how much the teaching of other residents and medical students is emphasized! Not only is that beneficial for solidifying medical knowledge as a resident, but I so appreciate the residents that made time to teach me as a student.

Hometown

Sammamish, WA

Undergrad

Texas Christian University, 2018

Medical School

University of North Texas Health Science Center - Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2022