Marc Ellsworth, M.D.

What attracted you to medicine and pediatrics?

While in college I received advice from a physician family member that the best way to maximize my satisfaction in medicine was to make sure there was nothing else "I could see myself doing." I spent time in college exploring a business degree and even part-owned a small flooring business with a friend. However, I was always drawn back to the medical sciences and determined that medicine was the only thing that I could see myself doing. It became evident early on in medical school that pediatrics was my specific passion. I was particularly drawn to neonatology and thoroughly enjoyed the spectrum of disease and unique involvement I had with families at such a special time in their lives. The ability to make such significant and long-lasting interventions in the lives of my patients made pediatrics an easy choice for me.

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training?

I came from a medical school that focused on direct involvement with faculty and allowed ample opportunities for mentorship. Looking back at my medical school experience, I definitely recognize that my mentors and the personal attention they gave to me was the most fulfilling and educationally valuable part of my education. As a result, I was looking for a residency program that offered similar opportunities. On my interview day, it was immediately obvious that the faculty and residents were closely knit. The residents were treated as colleagues and given autonomy in the decision-making process for each patient. I knew the environment was exactly what I needed in order to succeed and maximize my educational experience.

What makes the Mayo Clinic Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine Residency unique?

The wide variety of patients we see is what makes this such a unique place to train. I have seen the bread-and-butter asthmatic, bronchiolitic and atopic children, as well as the complex patients that come from all over the world. I encounter families that live in the city, on a farm in the nearby communities, or are from far away states or countries. Mayo gives me the opportunity to take care of children from all backgrounds, communities and unique environments. It definitely broadens my experience and adds variety to the day. The 100% board pass rate that we have had over the last 5-6 years gives evidence to the diversity of our training here.

Anything surprise you about Mayo's program?

The access to resources was a pleasant surprise. I never realized how easy (and important) it would be to access the large amount of resources that Mayo offers. Anytime I need help there is always someone I can call. From the excellent respiratory therapists in the ICUs, to consultants on any service (both adult and pediatrics), I always feel that I have everything I need at my disposal. I never thought that as a brand new intern I could personally call the cardiac surgeon on a weekend to come in and help me manage a patient, but it happens. The amount of resources and staff are limitless and accessible.

What is living in Rochester like for you?

It has been great place to live for our family. Rochester is so family friendly and easily accessible. It is a good mix of everything you need without the traffic and congestion of a big city. The Twin Cities are very accessible and great to visit. Being from Arizona, I was a bit skeptical of the cold. It is definitely cold but manageable (a garage helps). The Mayo campus is all connected by subway or shuttle, which makes escaping the cold easy and convenient. I could definitely see myself staying here for more than the three years of residency, which is a common theme among residents.

What does your future look like right now?

I plan on applying for a Neonatology fellowship.

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