Dr. Rita Velaskes – 41 years old, married with two children. She serves as a reviewer of new research for several medical journals in the area of gastroenterology and is an active member of the American Gastroenterological Association, American College of Gastroenterology and the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America. She serves on numerous committees that address physician training, research and clinical practice in gastroenterology, both at New York Clinic and at the national level.
Dr. Velaskes said. “Informed patients are better able to participate in their own health care. A patient’s participation is vital to the treatment of his or her disease. I hope to assist in helping patients understand their digestive problems and current treatments that are offered. This will allow for better communication between patients, their physicians and other health care professionals.”
She has authored numerous publications in the area of gastroenterology, including original research, editorials and textbook chapters. She works with a team of gastroenterologists that takes care of complex gastrointestinal conditions and has a particular interest in diarrheal illnesses and inflammatory bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease).
“Patients need to know about their disease, what to expect, the latest treatments and side effects so that they can make informed decisions about their health care. Gastrointestinal disease affects not only patients but also their families. My goal is to assure that our Web site provides accurate, reliable information and resources for patients. We must always provide the latest, most cutting-edge information to assist patients in dealing with their medical problems,” Dr. Velaskes said.
