Passing Notes with Dr. Jon Spitz

Passing Notes was created as a way to communicate as well as learn from each other. Inspired by those classroom days, we share the notes from the students with members of the EB256 Squad who respond and we pass the note any way we can. Responding to each other in a timely manner despite the distance. 

We passed a note to Jon Spitz, an emergency medicine doctor in New York City who shared with us what it was like working  during a pandemic. This note was passed to the candidates of Rev. Nayenga Primary School. And is now being shared with the squad in case someone needs a reminder to give their doctor a call or pick up the guitar. That’s how we do little things with passion. 

1. Hi Dr.Jon! Can you tell us a bit about where you work and what you do there? 

Hey EarlyBird256! I work as an emergency medicine doctor in New York City at Mount Sinai West and Mount Sinai Luke's Hospital. People come to the emergency department for all sorts of acute issues — back pain, heart attacks, strokes, falls, cuts, and much more. I have to be ready to treat whatever walks through the door.

How did you end up becoming a doctor? Is that what you've always wanted to do?

From a young age I was interested in becoming a doctor but also considered becoming a journalist, history professor, or a musician. I had a lot of interests! In college, as I took advanced science courses and began volunteering at hospitals, it became clear to me I would be most happy and fulfilled working in a medical field serving others. 

How difficult has it been working during the COVID-19 pandemic? Has it made you question your decision to become a doctor?

I have to be honest — it has been in many ways the most difficult time in my life. Treating very sick patients and speaking with family members can be very emotionally draining. That said, I have never doubted my decision to become a doctor. If anything, the privilege to treat COVID patients has affirmed by decision to become an emergency medicine doctor. Being there for another in their moment of greatest need is a gift.

What advice do you give to people during the pandemic?

Times are tough now but it won't last forever. Restaurants will come back, sports will come back, travel will come back. For now, think about your family, friends, and the people you love. The precautions you take these next few months may save their lives. 

What advice do you give to children who are thinking about becoming doctors?

It's a really long road — college, medical school, residency, and fellowship. But if you enjoy studying science and love the idea of helping people, there is no better job in the world. Work hard in school and you can do it too!

Were the majority of family members and friends asking more questions at the beginning of the pandemic or now? 

More friends and family were asking questions at the beginning of the pandemic here, between March and May, when NYC was at its peak. However, now that the vaccine is out and COVID numbers are rising again here, friends and family are starting to ask my thoughts on the increasing numbers.

When not working in the emergency room, what do you like to do in your free time? Do you play any musical instruments or sports?

I like to play guitar, watch my favorite basketball team (the Lakers), and watch too many TV shows. I watch Jeopardy and the news every night, and recently I've been video chatting with my mom and dad a lot more often.