Meet Kamran Samakar, MD

Dr. Samakar is a general surgeon at Keck Medicine of USC who specializes in bariatric and gastrointestinal procedures.

Here’s what you won’t find on his resume.

Caring for others is his lifelong career goal.

“As a child, I always dreamed of becoming a doctor.”

He loves staying active, and in his free time you’ll find him outside.

“When I’m not working, I’m usually spending quality time with my family or enjoying the outdoors. I love surfing, swimming, biking, golfing and hiking the local trails.”

Travel tops the to-do list.

“More international travel is on my personal bucket list. South Africa is my favorite destination so far. Next, I’d like to visit Japan, Australia and Thailand.”

If pressed, he would trade his scalpel and white coat for cleats and a soccer ball.

“If I could trade careers with anyone, it would be a professional soccer player. The opportunity to play sports for a living and travel the world while doing it seems like it would be very cool.”

The chance to help others is the most rewarding part of the job.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to make a direct, positive impact on each patient’s health and to help improve their overall quality of life. There is significant meaning in going to work every day with the intent to help another human, decrease their suffering and do some good.”

It’s all about the personalized care.

“My patients inspire me to provide the best care possible every day. I approach each person with empathy, and I strive to always be comforting and approachable so that each patient feels safe and supported throughout their healthcare journey.”

Research is an important component of his work.

“I am involved with a wide variety of research projects in many areas, including projects focused on bariatric and weight-loss surgery techniques. Our team has published extensively in the medical literature and presented our findings both nationally and internationally.”

He appreciates Keck Medicine’s exceptional team.

“It’s a privilege to work alongside such incredible colleagues who share my dedication to providing the best patient-centered care possible.”

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