Department of
Medical Education

Sharda Udassi, MD, FAAP, MHCM, MS (Pop Health), FISQua

Sharda Udassi, MD, FAAP, MHCM, MS (Pop Health), FISQua

Board Certification: Pediatrics, Medical Quality

Medical School: Karachi University

Residency: SUNY Syracuse Upstate University Hospital

Faculty Rank: Professor of Pediatrics

Special Clinical/Research Interests: Pediatric Hospital (inpatient) Medicine, Healthcare Safety, Quality and Experience Improvement – achieving the best in healthcare. Research interest in Pediatric Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Quality and Outcomes, Healthcare Outcomes.

Is there a particular population of students (e.g., ethnicity, spiritual, sexual orientation) that you would particularly like to advise?

Anyone who I can help and support to achieve their goals.

What does a typical day in the life of a Pediatrician include?

Clinical responsibilities include reviewing patient charts, inpatient pediatric rounds which include patient management discussion with patient, family and team along with education of medical students, nursing students, pharmacy students and residents. Documentation review and sign off. Didactic lecture in afternoon. Attending hospital or University or national committee meetings. Working on strategic planning or course design related to Healthcare Safety, Quality and Experience Improvement. On call-take admission calls and provide consultation to all WVU Medicine Hospitals, certain weeks throughout the year.

What is the biggest challenge of being a Pediatrician?

Changing old culture to incorporate new ways of doing things that improve healthcare safety, quality and experience. It happens but need patience as it takes a long time.

How do you foresee Pediatrics changing over the next 20 years?

Drastic changes in clinical workflow with incorporation of Artificial intelligence use safely. A lot of emphasis on healthcare safety, quality and experience – just providing healthcare is not enough! We need to provide the safest, timely, cost effective (latest evidence based), efficient, equitable, patient centered care.

What advice would you give a student who is considering a Pediatrics residency?

Learn the tips on how to start strong in any residency program you join. Start with full force, energy and commitment. Your first few months a crucial to set your positive impression as a strong trainee (learner). Rest would be easy.