Eric Pillado, MD, is a fifth-year resident in integrative vascular surgery at the McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University. He has dedicated his second year of professional development to researching the outcomes of diabetic patients with peripheral disease.
Eric Pillado, MD, has chosen to live his life authentically, refusing to conceal aspects of his identity for professional reasons. While completing his medical degree at the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, Pillado chose to reveal his sexual orientation as a precautionary measure, given the potential for a negative reaction. Pillado is thankful for the strong support from his family and the medical community over the years. He acknowledges the challenges faced by LGBTQIA individuals who lack acceptance from society and their families.
"It was truly a fear at the time. However, over the years, I've been able to become comfortable with myself and my sexuality," Pillado said. "I think this is just a good reminder of how much work we need to do as a society."
Pillado is originally from Roswell, New Mexico, a rural town near the West Texas border, and has moved around the country to pursue his education. After medical school, he left the West Coast to complete his integrated vascular surgery residency at Northwestern University in Chicago. During his professional development time, he obtained a Master of Science in Health Services and Outcomes Research and a Master of Business Administration at Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management. He aims to understand healthcare delivery systems within vascular surgery better and effectively utilize patient-centered, value-based care within peripheral arterial disease patients. He loves the complexity of the specialty and wants to showcase the connections specific to vascular.
"In vascular, we talk much with our patients and their families about life-altering procedures and care. It involves learning about their loved ones and their goals, and it's very important to understand a patient well. If there is reluctance or hesitance because of their sexuality or gender, it puts up a barrier that could inhibit appropriate health care for our patients," Pillado said.
It can be disheartening for him when surgical residents express regret about not pursuing vascular surgery due to concerns about the acceptance of the LGBTQIA community. Pillado firmly believes that one's identity should not hinder their ability to pursue their passion and hopes that the future of vascular surgery will prioritize inclusivity and acceptance for all individuals.
Pillado suggests that Society for Vascular Surgery members adopt a proactive approach toward "allyship." The aim is to create a space where LGBTQIA individuals can advocate for inclusivity with the support of their colleagues rather than relying on outside experts. Pillado encourages everyone to confront uncomfortable feelings that arise from unfamiliar topics, as this is a shared experience. The first step towards this is to ask questions about LGBTQIA topics without feeling ashamed. Pillado advises people to start with vague questions about people's pronouns, which can gradually lead to more productive conversations.
"Pride Month serves as a great reminder of how much we've done for our community as a whole and how much our community matters in our specialty. I think the future of vascular involves Pride Month, making sure all our patients, regardless of their background, are included, and the future of vascular surgery involves providers of various backgrounds being included in our specialty," Pillado said.
Pillado is enthusiastic about the present state of vascular surgery and its promising future, primarily due to the leadership of the SVS. The focus is on enhancing the field and providing better patient care. He praises the efforts of the SVS Foundation, particularly the Voices of Vascular initiative, as evidence of the field's remarkable progress.
"When you provide donations to the Foundation, you are donating to an incredible Society with a mission to foster a great vascular surgery environment and how we can continue to better ourselves, and our patient care," Pillado said.
Donating to the SVS Foundation supports Voices of Vascular's important work in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Learn more and make your gift today.