Dr. Roger Kapoor, M.D., M.B.A., F.A.A.D., currently lives in Beloit, Wisconsin where he holds the title of Senior Vice President of Beloit Health System. As a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Roger Kapoor has built a successful dermatology practice that uses the latest cosmetic enhancements and advanced laser treatments for the removal of hair and treatment of facial veins, wrinkles, and acne scars.
Dr. Roger Kapoor completed his internship in internal medicine at Stanford University in California, followed by his residency in dermatology at Harvard Medical School in Massachusetts in 2011. Additionally, Dr. Roger Kapoor holds an MBA from Oxford University in England.
He was recently named the 2022 recipient of the Wisconsin Medical Society’s Kenneth M. Viste Young Physician Leader of the Year Award which recognizes a young physician each year who demonstrates a commitment to patients, community, and the profession of medicine.
We had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Roger Kapoor who shared why he became a doctor and how he got started.
How did you get started?
My first experiences in the medical field came from shadowing family members who were already doctors. After volunteering at a hospital, I spent time shadowing my uncle in his clinic, and also accompanied him when he would go to provide free care for the underprivileged. After that, I spent time shadowing my brother after he became a doctor himself.
It was inspiring to see how they could help people and that was when I knew I wanted to go into the medical field myself.
Tell us about your family and how they impacted your life and career?
My brother becoming a physician certainly influenced my career decision. It was through shadowing him that I decided to go into medicine in the first place. I credit him with having an invaluable impact on the path that I chose.
What inspired you to become a doctor?
I became a doctor in order to have the ability to help people and have a real impact on the quality of life of my patients.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted your career choice? If so, how did you handle that?
No, I never doubted my career choice along the way because I was absolutely determined to become a doctor. Of course, there have been hurdles I’ve had to overcome, but I’ve always had a vision toward reaching my goal which helped me get through those hard times.
How did you get your first patient?
As a doctor, your first patient is always going to be a memorable experience. I remember being nervous and it felt surreal to finally be seeing a patient of my own after being in school for close to a decade.
My first patient was special. At the time, she was 82 years old. We ended up developing a great friendship and remained in touch until she passed away.
I’ve found the most difficult part of being in the medical field is the loss of life. You get to know your patients so well that you become emotionally invested in their lives. When you lose a patient, it’s really hard.
If you were to start again, what would you do differently?
I wouldn’t do anything differently. I am happy with where I am and the unique set of life experiences I have had to get here.
