Matthew T. Parrish, M.D.
- Surgical Outcomes Research Fellow, 2024-2025
- General Surgery Resident
What moment or experience in your life influenced your decision to be a surgeon?
I did not have any experience with medicine growing up. I am the first physician in my family. But playing sports, I always loved the team environment and the challenges that played out on the field.
When I decided to pursue a career in medicine, there was never a doubt I would be a surgeon. The operating room offers many challenges similar to what I experienced in sports. Teamwork, failure, opportunity — there are countless similarities between sports and surgery. Given this, I naturally gravitated toward surgery.
Why did you choose Mayo Clinic to pursue your career?
Mayo Clinic has a rich history of developing world-class surgeons who are prepared to tackle the toughest clinical challenges. And the resources available for residents to pursue their interests are incredible! The pathology is tough, but the cases are rewarding.
I sought to train somewhere that would prepare me to take on any challenge I may face in my future career as a surgeon educator. Mayo is exactly that place.
What motivated you to become a Surgical Outcomes Research Fellow in the Mayo Clinic Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery?
From simple elective procedures to the most complex cases, striving to achieve the best outcome possible is at the forefront of every surgeon's day. During residency, I have been able to appreciate the intersection of research and clinical studies on why and how we, as surgeons, do what we do. In pursuing research opportunities, I desired to gain experience to better characterize the intersection of data and clinical practice to improve patient experiences and outcomes. This goal led me to the Kern Center and the Surgical Outcomes Research Fellowship.
What is your research focus in this fellowship program?
For one, I am focused on research within the field of pediatric surgery. A second potential area of focus is digital health in surgery.
How will your research improve patient care or positively affect public health?
In one way, my time at the Kern Center will no doubt make me a better surgeon and clinician. More far-reaching, I hope to expand on the field of pediatric surgery and demonstrate how focusing on surgical outcomes will help improve patient experience and recovery.
Who are your mentors for this program and why did you select them?
My mentors for this program are Stephanie F. Polites, M.D, M.P.H., and Elizabeth B Habermann, Ph.D. Dr. Polites is a pediatric surgeon who also completed research through the Kern Center. She provides clinical context and direction in developing various projects and research questions. Dr. Habermann is the Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Deputy Director of Research and the director of the Surgical Outcomes Research Fellows Program.