Patient experience spotlight: Dr. Dipti Sekhsaria

Every month, Akron Children’s recognizes an employee for providing an excellent patient experience. July’s honoree is Dr. Dipti Sekhsaria, pediatrician at Akron Children’s Pediatrics in Wadsworth. She recently received this feedback from a grateful parent:

“I recently had the opportunity to meet Dipti Sekhsaria, MD, for the first time, and I must say it was a wonderful experience. From the moment we walked into her office, her kindness and gentle demeanor made a significant difference in my child’s comfort level.

“My child had been suffering from a severe sinus infection that escalated into a panic attack, which added to our worries. Dr. Sekhsaria took the time to address not only the medical issue but also the emotional aspects of what my child was going through. She approached the situation with great knowledge and empathy, ensuring that my child felt safe and understood. I truly appreciated how she patiently calmed my child and built a rapport that fostered trust. It was evident that Dr. Sekhsaria genuinely cares about her patients and is dedicated to finding effective solutions. She provided a clear plan to help my child recover and even encouraged us to schedule a follow-up appointment within the same week to monitor progress.

“Overall, I am grateful for Dr. Sekhsaria’s exceptional care and compassion. She is a fantastic pediatrician, and I highly recommend her to any parent seeking a supportive and knowledgeable doctor for their children.”

Dr. Dipti Sekhsaria 

Dr. Sekhsaria, how did you feel when you read what the parent shared about you?

It was a heartwarming feeling to read the patient and parent’s experience.

The parent said you not only addressed the medical issue but calmed their child. Have you always had a soothing bedside manner, or have you developed it over time?

I have been in pediatrics for about 20 years, so I have developed some skills over that period of time. Also being a mom of 3 kids, with one of them being a 13-year-old, has helped me shape my responses. I feel that I am still learning every single day.

I have also been actively working on improving my skills to better connect with and understand my patients. For example, active listening skills helped me to connect with this patient and family to understand what exactly was going on.

How do you build trust, especially with a first-time patient like this?

I like to be honest with my patients. I also like to make treatment plans that will work for the patient and the family, which I feel helps in building trust.

What does family-centered care mean to you?

To me, family-centered care means partnering with the family and delivering medical care in a way that suits the family’s values. That allows the family and patient to follow the care plan.

What do you like best about being a pediatrician?

I love what I do! I like spending time with kids and talking to them all day!