Tinsa Varughese, DO

Get to know Tinsa Varughese, DO, internal medicine resident.

Medical school: New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career goal: Gastroenterology

LVHN offers a unique blend of community and academic health care with an equal balance of lectures, bedside teaching and research. This model gives daily opportunities to develop new skills, strengthen your clinical knowledge and deliver meaningful care to your patients.

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

LVHN has been an exceptional place to train as a resident, offering an enriching and supportive environment. I have worked with outstanding attendings who are as committed to my success as I am, serving as both mentors and role models. My co-residents are equally inspiring, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie. LVHN offers a unique blend of community and academic health care with an equal balance of lectures, bedside teaching and research. This model gives daily opportunities to develop new skills, strengthen your clinical knowledge and deliver meaningful care to your patients.

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

A unique part of my training so far is the different disease processes we see on a daily basis. As residents, we manage critically ill patients in the cardiac and medical ICUs and even on primary services, so we see the breadth and width of unique patients. We also get the opportunity to rotate through multiple specialties as residents, which broadens our exposure even more. This has helped us to be adaptable and gain a more comprehensive understanding of medicine.

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

One of my first memories of my residency was walking into my first medical ICU night shift. I remember that it had been a particularly difficult day for the day team, and as the night team was starting it seemed our night would be just as demanding. What stood out to me was how quickly my co-residents supported and taught me during our shift even with a busy workload. It was the first time I saw how strong teamwork was within our network and is a theme I have continued to see throughout my residency.

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

Residency is one of the hardest things you will do in your career, not only because you are learning how you want to practice medicine in the field you want to work in, but the long hours and stress of being in a new environment can be overwhelming. And often, the people who understand the struggle of being in a similar situation will be your co-residents. I would suggest when looking at a program to look at how residents interact and how they support each other because these are the relationships that will help you succeed.

What does it mean to be a resident at LVHN?

Being a resident at LVHN is an incredible opportunity to grow into the doctor you want to become. You will care for a diverse patient population across a range of clinical settings, guided by dedicated physicians who not only model outstanding care but also serve as trusted mentors. Here, you will learn to practice medicine in an environment that prioritizes both patient well-being and the personal and professional growth of its residents.