Family Practice
Wilbur Asheld (D.O.’10) is a man of heart. As a cardiologist, he balances routine check-ups and life-saving surgeries. No matter what, it comes down to making decisions. “My father instilled in me the importance of thinking through a tough clinical situation. To weigh the risks and benefits and trust your gut instinct,” he says. Early on, when it came time to choose where he wanted to attend medical school, he picked New York Tech. “It offered such a comprehensive learning environment, which allowed me to grow as a physician,” says Asheld. “The Anatomy course and the cadaver lab were memorable for me as it was the first time I learned in such a hands-on group learning environment.” Asheld spoke to The Box about his career and the bond he shares with his family.
What was your experience like at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM)? New York Tech helped to guide me to become a life-long student. There is always new technology and information being developed, and you have to be able to adapt and use this information to help your patients.
Your brother, John Asheld (D.O. ’08), also graduated from NYITCOM. You’re both cardiologists and in the same medical group. How have these shared experiences helped you?
My brother and I have always been close, but pursuing the same field and in the same practice has only brought us closer. I have someone to discuss tough cases with and to make sure I am always performing at my best. We both tend to push each other to achieve more and further develop our skills.
Your father went into medicine. How has that influenced you when it comes to your career?
I was fortunate to have my father, who was an internist, give me great insight into the life of a physician from an early age. I saw the great skills it entailed and how much his patients valued him as a part of their family, and how close of a bond he was able to form with his patients. Further, I developed a love for the sciences and technology, so it was an easy fit for me.
What have been the proudest moments for you in your career?
The proudest moments in my career are always when a patient or colleague refers their family members to see me as they trust me to take great care of their closest family.
What’s the best advice you received?
The best advice I received was that successful people do the little things that most people are not willing to do. Also, work hard and build a great reputation; the rest will sort itself out.
