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FSP Spotlight | Get to Know Sherri Flax, MD

Welcome to this edition of the FSP member spotlight. Every month we will highlight a different FSP member who is doing exciting things in the field of pathology. This month we are featuring Sherri Flax, MD, the Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs and Outreach, Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of Florida. 

   Sherri Flax, MD
   Vice Chair, Clinical Affairs and Outreach
   Department of Pathology, University of Florida
   Gainesville, FL 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is your current role? 

I am the Vice Chair, Clinical Affairs and Outreach, Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of Florida.  My subspecialty interests are nephropathology, hematopathology, coagulation testing and transfusion medicine.

What is the best part of your occupation?

I get to work so many wonderful and talented people who usually appreciate my oblique sense of humor (or at least graciously pretend to).

How did you become interested in pathology?

When I was five, my career choices were astronaut versus doctor.  At age six, I discovered I am prone to motion sickness; so, astronaut was out.  It wasn’t until I was in my second year of medical school that I discovered pathology.  I had some fabulous teachers that year and became fascinated with the “why” and “how” questions regarding disease.

How did you become involved with the FSP?

I think that it is important to support our profession by networking and staying informed about the many external influences that affect our practice.  My UF colleagues invited me to my first FSP meeting.  After attending, I realized that being involved in the  FSP is a great way to support our profession, as well as meet some phenomenal pathologists.

Explain how you benefit from being a member of FSP?

FSP does a great job of enhancing my practice of pathology!  FSP has had exceptional educational speakers at the meetings I have attended.  Professionally, FSP’s Political Committee does an excellent job of representing Florida pathologists in their legislative efforts.  FSP promotes and fosters residents.  I have enjoyed each meeting that I have attended, particularly getting to know the pathologists and residents that attend.

What would you like to see occur in the field of pathology (i.e., scientific advances, greater awareness of the field, etc.) during your career?  

I wish that pathology, as a specialty, was better understood and recognized by the public.  Not to diminish the contribution of our clinical colleagues in any way, but pathology is the “hub” of almost every diagnosis or treatment, yet the public rarely knows how heavily their care depends on pathologists.  If we are to continue to generate the number of pathologists that the future requires, the public’s awareness of pathology’s contribution to medicine must increase.

What are your hobbies outside of the office?

Horses!  I am working towards becoming a Licensed Official for the United States Equestrian Federation.

What is something surprising that most people do not know about you? 

I own Eli,  a former Budweiser Clydesdale, who is a beloved family member.  I taught him to jump!

Is there anything I did not ask that you would like me to mention in the article? 

I love pathology.  If I had to choose my career all over again, without the slightest doubt, I would be a pathologist.