Timothy Graves MD is the most recent addition to the WhidbeyHealth Surgical Team
A physician needs empathy as much as professional skill and that’s one quality that WhidbeyHealth general surgeon, Dr.
Timothy Graves, puts ahead of all others.
“We are all human and vulnerable to becoming ill. Perhaps we will need medical and surgical care. I have had surgery myself and it can be scary,” says Dr. Graves.
“One of the most important things for me in my work is treating patients exactly the way I wish to be treated; as if they are my family. We always do our best to provide the safest and best care experience possible.”
Having just moved onto the surgical care team at WhidbeyHealth from Providence Medical Center this summer, Dr. Graves has already found his pace on the island. He’s been a surgeon for 20 years, some of that time having practiced at Naval Station Whidbey Island. However, it wasn’t always clear that he would become a doctor.
“I have always been fascinated with anatomy and physiology,” the doctor says, “and I enjoy helping people. I was working in construction when my uncle suggested I become a surgeon.”
Graves graduated with honors from Tufts Medical School in Boston, Mass. before heading off to the Navy to practice. Since that time, Dr. Graves has honed his skills to be equal to his compassion. He expects a perfect outcome with every surgery he performs and expects the same of his operating room staff.
“I encourage a calm and relaxing operative environment,” Dr. Graves says.
As a general surgeon, Dr. Graves can treat a wide-range of issues, which include advanced laparoscopic procedures.
“I can help with anything from small lumps and bumps to complex hernias and advanced abdominal cancer.”
When not practicing medicine, Dr. Graves keeps busy outside with his favorite pastimes of hiking, biking, sailing, skiing and diving. And when asked what he thinks is the single most important quality to being a great surgeon?
“Patience,” he said.
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