Christian A. Otto MD

What made you want to become a health care provider or what is your earliest memory of wanting to be one?

I became a physician because of my interest in science and human performance and the desire to help patients improve their health and live their lives to the fullest of their ability.

What do you love most about your specialty? / Why did you choose your specialty?

I enjoy emergency medicine and acute care medicine because of the wide range of illness and injury that a patient may present with and the problem solving that is required to identify and treat their condition to help the patient return to an optimal state of health.

How do you connect with your patients?

I think it is important to be present with patients, be kind and empathetic, listen carefully, reflect on what the patient is sharing with you, ask them some questions about what they do and who they are. It is important to be interested in the patients we have the privilege to care for.

What are your interests outside of the office (hobbies, activities)?

My family and I are active in many outdoor sports. We enjoy skiing, canoe trips, triathlons, soccer, trail running, and mountain biking.

What is your advice for your patients?

Eat a healthy diet, exercise daily, get adequate sleep, limit alcohol, spend time with family and friends, take your holidays.