Member of the Month: Prachi Thapar, DO

Prachi Thapar, DO, is entering her third year of training at the UT Southwestern Family Medicine Residency Program. She aspires to care for underserved populations and to be an advocate for health care policies that increase access to quality care for all. Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Thapar attended medical school at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Worth.

Who or what inspired you to become a family physician?

My journey toward becoming a family physician was fueled by a deep-seated belief in medicine as a tool for empowerment. Witnessing the impact of medical conditions and societal disparities on individuals' lives ignited a passion within me to pursue a career focused on holistic care and advocacy. Whether it was supporting an elderly man navigating Alzheimer's or assisting a patient with limited health literacy in managing hypertension, I saw firsthand how health care barriers hindered people from thriving.

This realization propelled me toward envisioning a role where I could work collaboratively with diverse communities, providing not just medical treatment, but also access to education and support. In medical school, my mentors further solidified my path, demonstrating how family physicians serve as compassionate guides through life's most significant moments, offering unwavering support from birth to end-of-life care. Their mentorship inspired me to embrace the role of a family physician wholeheartedly.

What has surprised you most about family medicine?

What has truly captivated me in my journey through family medicine is the deep-rooted sense of connection and collaboration within the field. It's not just about treating patients; it's about being part of a close-knit community where everyone genuinely cares for each other's well-being. From the moment I stepped into the world of family medicine, I was taken aback by the warmth and camaraderie among fellow practitioners. The openness and compassion of my mentors during medical school sparked my passion for this specialty.

As I've delved deeper, I've been continually amazed by the unwavering support from colleagues, the seamless teamwork across disciplines, and the unwavering commitment to providing holistic care. Family medicine isn't just a profession; it's a calling — a journey enriched by shared experiences, mutual respect, and a profound sense of purpose.

What are your plans for your career?

I aspire to blend my passion for patient care with a commitment to health care advocacy. I aim to engage in advocacy efforts to shape health care policies that promote equitable access to quality care for all individuals. Additionally, I am eager to immerse myself in the administrative and health care design sphere, seeking opportunities to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, develop innovative solutions, and improve patient outcomes. Through continuous learning, collaboration, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies, I strive to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of health care delivery and make a positive impact on the communities I serve.

Why do you choose to be a TAFP member?

I choose to be a member of TAFP because of its unwavering commitment to advocacy. As a family physician, I believe in the importance of advocating for policies that not only support our specialty but also prioritize the well-being of our patients. TAFP provides a powerful platform for me to lend my voice to important health care issues, whether it's advocating for increased access to care, promoting preventive medicine initiatives, or addressing challenges facing primary care practices. By being a member of TAFP, I can actively participate with like-minded individuals in shaping the future of health care, ensuring that family medicine remains at the forefront of delivering comprehensive, patient-centered care.

What do you enjoy doing outside of medicine?

Dancing has always been a passion of mine — I initially trained in Indian classical dance, but love exploring different styles! I also enjoy oil painting, board game nights, and crosswords.

TAFP’s Member of the Month program highlights Texas family physicians in TAFP News Now and on the TAFP website. We feature a biography and a Q&A with a different TAFP member each month and his or her unique approach to family medicine. If you know an outstanding family physician colleague who you think should be featured as a Member of the Month or if you’d like to tell your own story, nominate yourself or your colleague by contacting TAFP by email at tafp@tafp.org or by phone at (512) 329-8666.