Karin P. Trujillo, MD

When Karin Trujillo, MD, meets a new patient, her message is simple: She's committed to being their partner and advocate over the long haul.

"I try to reassure people," said Dr. Trujillo, a thoracic surgeon with Methodist Physicians Clinic. "I try to show patients their scans and really explain what we're looking at because I want them to understand why they're having surgery, why we're doing what we're doing. I think it's important to establish that trust so you can tell them that any question you ask me is fair game. There are no stupid questions."

Dr. Trujillo chose to specialize in thoracic surgery because it combines "finesse and beauty" with challenging work that can be lifesaving. She most commonly treats cancers of the lung, esophagus, airway and lining of the chest, but she also sees patients with benign conditions such as diaphragmatic hernias and pulmonary disease.

Trujillo finds collaboration with her colleagues gratifying, and she's proud to be surrounded by a team that's dedicated to showing each patient The Meaning of Care.

"The Meaning of Care means that we're all invested in the patient," she said. "And that's everybody down the line, from the nurses to the physicians to the social workers and also the administration. Everyone is committed to helping that patient get through whatever they're going through at that time."

Dr. Trujillo's first language is Spanish, and she is also fluent in English and proficient in French. When she's not caring for patients, she enjoys reading, jogging, biking, skiing, traveling and spending time with her family, boyfriend and dog.