Meet your MEC: Eric Laro, MD

‘Being trusted at a very vulnerable time in a patient’s life is extremely fulfilling’

In this series, we’ll meet members of the Medical Executive Committees (MECs) at Salem and West Valley hospitals so you can get to know the people behind these leadership roles. Next up, Surgical Specialty Department Chair for West Valley Hospital, Eric Laro, MD. Dr. Laro specializes in general surgery.

What does it mean to you to be Surgical Specialty Department Chair for West Valley Hospital?

It is an honor to represent the small cadre of surgeons and the wonderful staff at West Valley. The small department exemplifies the model of patient-centered care.

What do you like most about West Valley Hospital?

I enjoy the small-town feel — two hallways, one floor, everyone knows your name. The West Valley community really embraces the hospital and uniformly desires to have their care close to home. The surgical staff have all worked in Salem in the past, so it is nice to catch up with old friends. Finally, we are filling a need in one of the fastest growing communities in the mid-Willamette Valley.

What made you want to specialize in general surgery?

There is no discipline that compares to the breadth and diversity of general surgery. A 4-year-old appendectomy, a 42-year-old advanced breast cancer mastectomy, rushing down to manage a severely-injured recent retiree, followed by a palliative care discussion on a new metastatic pancreatic cancer diagnosis — and this may be all on the same day. Being trusted at a very vulnerable time in a patient’s life is extremely fulfilling.

Why are you a doctor?

I graduated from college with a biomedical engineering degree and knew something was missing. Interacting and connecting with people was my draw to medicine. I have never regretted that choice.

What do you want most for your patients?

Hope that there is a solution to their condition. If not, then their suffering will always be addressed and managed to the best of our ability. Finally, comfort in the knowledge that I am always present for them.

What’s a fun fact about you we’d never guess?

I could actually be a very good travel agent. I always enjoy planning the perfect trip — although my family sometimes thinks that I kill them on vacation. Many colleagues come up to me for suggestions, and I always love to share my experiences.

What are you watching right now?

I am a big sports fan — anything Boston related — so I am gearing up for some playoff runs.

You enjoy hiking and cycling. What are a few local trails you recommend?

Silver Falls Trail of 10 Falls is a local gem. Hart’s Cove on the coast, No Name Lake in Bend and Portland’s 4T Trail are all fun. Some fun cycling options include McKenzie Pass (when it first opens), Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway and circling Crater Lake.

Best restaurant in the Willamette Valley? And what do you order?

Amadeus. I remember the days when they were in the building next to the old Doctors’ Clinic. I would go quite often for their spanakopita and still go to their downtown location for the same. Make sure you leave room for their wonderful desserts.

What’s the best advice you ever heard?

The three As of a medical practice — availability, affability and ability.

Thank you for sharing with us, Dr. Laro! We look forward to speaking with our next MEC member, Salem Hospital Credentials Committee Chair, Matthew Egalka, MD, in our next issue.