Cases that Changed Me

Some cases stay with physicians long after the chart is closed. Others reshape how they think, practice, and care for patients. Three alumni of the UAB Heersink School of Medicine will share the real-life experiences during Cases that Changed Me, a special webinar exploring the moments that left a lasting impact on their careers. This webinar is part of a series presented in partnership with the Medical Alumni Association. Featured Cases Dr. Chaitanya Dahagam During a late-night call shift in the Surgical ICU, a routine patient encounter became an unforgettable lesson in the importance of physician-patient communication. What began as a family member's simple question about recurring bile duct stones years after gallbladder surgery turned into a meaningful conversation that highlighted the impact of taking time to educate, listen, and connect. Dr. Dahagam reflects on a case that reinforced the value of clear communication and reminded him that some of the most lasting moments in medicine happen outside the operating room. About Dr. Dahagam Dr. Chaitanya Dahagam serves as Medical Director of Healthcare Solutions at Navina AI. With experience spanning general surgery, healthcare technology, and consulting, he works at the intersection of medicine and innovation to help healthcare organizations improve patient care and navigate the evolving healthcare landscape. Dr. Raymond Reiser When and 8-year-old boy arrived in hypoglycemic shock, the case became a powerful lesson in looking beyond initial assumptions and trusting your clinical instincts. Dr. Reiser reflects on the importance of avoiding confirmation bias, recognizing the red flags that signal something may have been missed, and having confidence in your judgement even when others may see things differently. Those lessons continue to shape his approach to patient care, including a recent case involving a child he diagnosed with osteosarcoma. About Dr. Reiser Dr. Raymond Reiser is a board-certified pediat