How well do you know your doctor? In most cases, probably not all that well. At Medical Offices of Manhattan, we couldn’t be more proud of our roster of highly-trained physicians and that includes the brilliant Dr. Denise Pate. A Rhodes Scholarship finalist and graduate of New York University School of Medicine, she is a true believer in the power of wellness and fitness, in herself and for her patients. Find out how she creates a bespoke experience for each of her patients, what she loves most of her beloved New York City and much more.
What are the greatest lessons your patients have taught you?
No two patients are ever the same to me. Ever. In order to make a lasting relationship with a patient, I need to get to know their lifestyle habits, their likes, and their dislikes, what motivates them to be a better, stronger, healthier version of themselves. Then I can take that and run with it. What works for one patient may not work for another. Understanding them as individuals is key to my method of patient care.
What made you decide to work in a private practice?
Working in a private practice allows me to really develop my own style. On a daily basis, I work at trying to cultivate an environment for my patients that makes them feel safe and well taken care of. In private practice, you can make change happen faster than when in a large institution.
Do you have your own personal wellness/health regimen?
I believe very strongly in watching my diet and exercising. Anyone who knows me well will attest to the fact that I am an all or nothing person. I know which foods do not work well for my body and I try to avoid them at all costs! I absolutely love to exercise; indoor cycling is my work-out of choice. I have been cycling for the past 9 years. SoulCycle is the place where I am in my zone. I try to get to a class on average 3-4 times per week. This is pricey, but I justify it as my major mind/body investment and I do not spend crazily on clothes, shoes or purses, etc. Material things can always be replaced, but your body – now that’s a different story!
What is your favorite spot in New York City?
I have lived in New York City my entire life and could not see myself living anywhere else in the US. We recently moved closer to Central Park, so there for starters. I love museums – the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History are among my favorites. Madison Square Garden (when my favorite group is in town) and the US tennis center during the US Open. I’d also have to add the area near Washington Square Park because it brings back college memories.
Name one indulgence you could never live without?
Perfume!
What profession would you be practicing if you weren’t practicing medicine?
Gosh, this is a tough one … I’d have to say curator at the AMNH or a SoulCycle instructor.
What do you feel is missing from our current healthcare system?
The ability to take time with our patients by educating them about their health and to teach them about making healthy choices.
What’s one health trend you can completely get behind?
I do not buy into health trends because what is good one day may be shown to be harmful the next day. But, I do believe that exercise is extremely important and so if you are physically capable of doing it, then you should be doing it. I also do not believe that walking at a leisurely pace counts as exercise. You need to sweat!
Become one of Dr. Pate’s valued patients! Book an appointment with us soon!
