Dr. Michael Perrino chose a career in medicine because of the positive influence that healthcare providers had on him when he was growing up. Their compassion and genuine interest made a lasting impact on him. As a physician himself, Dr. Perrino tries to emulate these traits when he is working with his patients.

He decided to specialize in gastroenterology because it allows him to take care of patients with a wide variety of problems from heartburn to inflammatory bowel diseases. Dr. Perrino said the most rewarding part of his career is helping people to stay healthy. As an example, he cited a patient who suffered from cirrhosis, the symptoms of which were so severe that the patient could not work. Dr. Perrino referred the patient to a liver transplant center and the patient eventually received a new organ.

“It was very rewarding to see this patient return to work and enjoy life again,” Dr. Perrino said.

If he were not a physician, Dr. Perrino probably would have made a career serving in the U.S. Air Force, as his father did. In his free time, Dr. Perrino likes to play golf and watch college football and motorsports. Dr. Perrino is married to his wife who volunteers at their church as a Sunday school teacher. They have two children.