MSIH Alum Dr. Maayan Melamed shares insights into Adolescent Medicine

Dr. Maayan Melamed, Class of 2014, had never heard of her specialty when she was a student at MSIH. Maayan is currently an Adolescent Medicine Fellow at the Indiana University School of Medicine. Excited to share her newfound knowledge, she spoke enthusiastically on a recent visit to her alma mater.

Working with “the most fun age-group”

In December 2019, Maayan visited the MSIH campus to present “Life after Medical School,” including the road that led her to Adolescent Medicine. She discussed the patient populations she treats – adolescents with eating disorders, gender dysphoria, reproductive health, (gynecology and sexually transmitted infections), and mental health.

Students participated in an interactive session about HEADSSS screening (Home, Education, Eating, Activities, Drugs, Safety & Violence, Sexuality, and Suicidality and Emotional Health) and in a Q&A session, students asked about patient interactions, prioritizing interview parts and confidentiality for STI screening.

“I hope I raised awareness about the most fun age-group,” said Dr. Melamed. “It really is a great group of people to work with and it’s very, very satisfying.”

The Path to Specializing

After completing her Residency in Pediatrics at Baystate Medical Center/Tufts University in Springfield, MA, Maayan began her adolescent medicine fellowship. Soon after, she went on to a clinical pharmacology T32 fellowship – with funding from the National Institutes of Health for training. Maayan’s research involves reproductive health in sickle cell disease. She works two half-days of clinic each week.

“I really enjoyed talking to the MSIH students,” said Maayan. “I’m already looking forward to my next visit! “