Dr. Christopher Costin
Every month, Akron Children’s celebrates an employee for providing an outstanding patient experience. Our most recent honoree is Dr. Christopher Costin, a pediatric rheumatologist. Dr. Costin recently received these kind comments from a grateful parent:
“Dr. Costin is probably the best doctor we’ve ever seen, pediatric or adult. He was excellent at connecting with my son. He spent considerable time with us, answering all our questions and explaining every aspect of the condition and our options. Dr. Costin volunteered detailed explanations of how things work, what limits we face and the ‘why’ behind everything. He did it in a way nonmedical people can understand.
“Dr. Costin took an interest in exploring the whole picture across several other specialties. He immediately coordinated care instructions with other specialists. He even read us the message he sent, so we were aligned and had confidence that the right information was being conveyed. His outlook was well-balanced, grounded in fact and backed by his expert experience in dealing with similar situations.
“His patience, knowledge and kindness were top notch. If I could, I would consolidate all healthcare under Dr. Costin!”
How long have you been with Akron Children’s?
I started as a volunteer doing research in 2013 and then returned as a resident from 2017-2020. I then spent a few years in Chicago for fellowship training. Ultimately, I returned to Akron Children’s in 2024 to be a pediatric rheumatologist.
What drew you to the specialty of rheumatology?
I really like the mystery aspect of it. During medical school and residency, rheumatology was often consulted on interesting and puzzling cases. Throughout fellowship and being an attending doctor, this has remained true.
I also enjoy seeing patients in our outpatient clinic and getting to build long-term relationships with them.
What do you like best about practicing medicine?
I enjoy being able to take my love of science and medicine and use it to help people do and feel better.
How did you feel when you read the comments from this thankful parent?
At first, I was almost surprised. I feel so honored to read such kind words, and I’m so happy they had a good experience. Rheumatology can sometimes be a challenging field to understand. I am very happy to hear that I can help with some questions.
This family obviously felt very comfortable with you. How do you establish a good rapport in a short time?
I try my best to listen to what the patient is hoping to convey. Often, it feels like the chart doesn’t reflect the person in front of me. It’s helpful to keep an open mind and form an independent opinion.
What does family-centered care mean to you?
Pediatrics is unique in that we depend on parents, caretakers and other members to take care of and speak for patients. With that in mind, it remains important to incorporate the whole family’s opinions and home needs into decisions, evaluation and management. As medicine evolves, I feel that shared decision-making is becoming more important than ever.
Every Akron Children’s team member has the opportunity to make a difference in our patients’ lives. We’re hiring for clinical and nonclinical positions, so check out our career openings.
