Dylan Ruskanen, DO

Get to Know: Dylan Ruskanen, DO

Career goal: Undecided currently; interested in hematology and oncology, nephrology, pulmonary and critical care medicine.

You’re constantly learning from not only physicians but nurses, pharmacists, respiratory therapists, case managers, etc., each of whom will help you improve day by day.

What makes your Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) training program different from others across the country?

What stands out about the LVHN training program is its balance between high-acuity clinical exposure and a genuinely supportive learning environment. You’re trained in a system that handles a diverse and complex patient population, so you quickly build confidence managing a wide range of conditions. At the same time, I have never felt like I could not approach someone for help, whether that be from my co-residents, fellows or attendings. I feel seen, supported and challenged in the right ways. 

What has been the most extraordinary part of your training experience so far?

One of the most extraordinary parts of my training at Lehigh Valley Health Network has been the level of collaboration with all branches of medicine. You’re constantly learning from not only physicians but nurses, pharmacists, respiratory therapists, case managers, etc., each of whom will help you improve day by day. The interdisciplinary environment shapes how you think about medicine, not just as individual decisions, but as a coordinated effort. Additionally, there are so many opportunities for teaching within the program, which is a huge passion of mine and something I like to do on each rotation. 

What is one memory you have from your training so far that will stick with you for your career?

One core memory I have was my first day as resident. I always look back to my first day with a sense of fondness, not because I accomplished something major or messed up badly, but because of how much I have grown since that time. The transition from medical student to resident is difficult and anxiety inducing. There were many situations one year ago that I would hesitate on because of fear of making mistakes. When I am put into a situation where I now have the knowledge required, I reflect on that growth. Growth which was only made possible by the support of the people around me, the same support that taught me not to be afraid of mistakes, but to instead embrace them as part of the learning process and to understand that someone always has my back. 

What is one piece of advice you would share with someone as they select a training program?

Beyond the curriculum and schedule, lean into how a program makes you feel. The culture and level of support matter just as much as clinical opportunities. You want to be in an environment where you’re comfortable enough to ask questions and make mistakes while also growing over time to better the care you provide. When you find a place that cares about both your professional goals and personal well-being, it becomes much easier to thrive. 

What does it mean to be a resident at LVHN?

Being a resident at LVHN means being part of a shared commitment to delivering high-quality patient care while simultaneously learning and improving. You’re given autonomy, but never without support. It’s an environment that pushes you to become a better clinician while also building relationships with all your colleagues in a way that extends past medicine.