Michael D. Cirigliano

Dr. Mike Cirigliano is one of those rare physicians you might see both in the exam room and on your television screen. He plays a critical role in educating his patients and the greater public about medicine, the importance of prevention, and healthy living.

In this Fellow Spotlight blog, we speak to him about his love of medical history, his approach to being a medical contributor on TV, and how to maintain one’s well-being as we approach the holiday season. 

 

You’ve been a Fellow of the College since 1999. What initially inspired you to join, and what has kept you engaged over the years? 

I have always been drawn to the history and "romantic" side of medicine. The College was a lofty ambition of mine, given its rich history of medicine in our very illustrious Philadelphia past.

Being a student at the University of Pennsylvania in the mid-1980s, the historical significance of medicine in Philadelphia has always intrigued me, with how medicine has changed over the last two centuries. The College highlights these changes while keeping the history of the past alive, while showcasing the role of the historical doctor-patient relationship.

 

Can you tell us about one of your favorite items in the Library or Museum, or your favorite aspect of the College?

For me, the Mütter Museum is the crown jewel of the College. It brings life to the glorious past of the medical profession while highlighting Philadelphia medicine, one of the most historically significant cities in our nation. I would have to say the "soap lady" and the presidential "tumors" are my favorite exhibits.

 

What do you wish more people knew about the College?

I'm not sure that people know how important Philadelphia was to the history of medicine in the United States. It should be mandatory for all medical students in the first year to see where we have come from.

 

You’ve spent years bringing medical topics to the public through television and the media. How do you view the role of physicians in helping educate the public about health?

I consider my role as a medical contributor for FOX 29 as that of a teacher, providing the opportunity to educate viewers in a science-based, unbiased way that distills complex issues down to a level that everyone can understand. I think as physicians, we teach our patients every day. We act as "guides" through the often confusing and sometimes "shark-infested" waters of healthcare.

 

How do you decide which medical topics are the most important to highlight for your audience?

I generally use the latest journal publications as a basis for what to highlight on air. I also try to find topics that have a wide-ranging impact for as many viewers as possible that cover day-to-day, practical healthcare topics.

Occasionally, I enjoy discussing fun things that may appear rather mundane but make people laugh from time to time.

 

The holidays can bring stress, seasonal depression, and a push to “do it all.” What advice would you give to maintain balance and mental well-being during the holidays? 

Unfortunately, getting phrenetic about gifts, decorating, and cooking tends to make many stressed out and unhappy. I think the take-home message for all of us is to take a deep breath and remember what is actually important. As I tell all my patients, family and friends are more interested in you and not so much the trappings of the holidays. Enjoy the moment and perhaps tell your family that you love them. Especially consider reaching out to a family member that you may not have spoken with for many years. Life is very short, and you don't want to wait until it's too late.

 

Prevention and early education are major themes in your career. How can physicians better empower patients to take control of their health?

I like to use the financial analogy of investing in your "Health 401(k)." Be a savvy consumer of healthcare. As the old Sy Simms commercials went, "An educated consumer is my best customer."

I welcome my patients to educate themselves on their own health issues. Have a relationship with your doctor based on caring, compassion, and mutual respect.