Matthew Lokant, M.D.
“As a native West Virginian, I aspire to improve healthcare for West Virginians through excellent patient care, research and education.”
Why did you choose to become a doctor/researcher/expert in your field? Was there a specific “a-ha” kind of moment?
Becoming a physician was a natural process facilitated by my interests in academics, education and caring for others. There were plenty of experiences that contributed to this path, however the day-to-day physician activities are what invigorate me to pursue medicine as a career.
What in your educational experience and training stood out to you, and what advice would you share with students who are in that position now?
Mentorship. A mentor that advocates, guides and introduces you to new possibilities will accelerate and strengthen your professional growth. I owe much to my mentors for my professional development and accomplishments.
What advice would you give to aspiring medical professionals?
I believe that consistent mentorship is key to success. I owe many of my successes to effective and encouraging mentors that provided insight into career-changing opportunities.
Why did you choose your field? Does it have any special significance for West Virginia?
The specialty of infectious diseases encompasses exciting and comprehensive patient care, diagnoses and community involvement. As a hospital epidemiologist, I serve to oversee reduction of infections within our hospital. I aspire to assist with the prevention and treatment of denizens in the state that I love.
How would you describe your day-to-day to a class of middle schoolers?
I help prevent, diagnose and treat infectious diseases.
Why did you choose to come work for West Virginia University?
As a native West Virginian, I aspire to improve healthcare for West Virginians through excellent patient care, research and education.
I work within a dynamic and thrilling specialty through teamwork, project development and direct patient care.
I want to reduce hospital acquired infections with WVU hospitals through collaborative education, projects and direct patient care.
The Edward G. Stuart Award - awarded to the fourth-year medical student who “best exemplifies the qualities of empathy and understanding and strengthens competency with compassion.” Teaching awards during both residency and fellowship.
Do you have a favorite memory that sticks with you throughout your career?
One of my favorite experiences from the LEAP Fellowship (Leaders in Epidemiology, Antimicrobial Stewardship and Public Health) was through the Global Action in Healthcare Network (GAIHN). I contributed to the implementation of sustainable programs through a partnership between three Greek hospitals and Vanderbilt University. Our partnership led to improvement in antibiotic resistance laboratory detection, communication and infection control responses.
Our program has a united approach that emphasizes quality education, collaboration and patient care.
How do you prioritize self-care and maintain a work-life balance in such a demanding profession?
To achieve work-life balance, you must make it a priority every day. Finding the elements that improve your own wellness is essential to achieving personal and professional success. My passions outside of medicine include music, exercise and food.
I enjoy live music - especially concerts with with family and friends.