Marie S. O'Brien, D.O.

Why did you choose your specialty?

Rheumatology is a very challenging specialty for physicians as well as for patients, and I like the challenge. The diseases are complex and encompass every field of medicine.

What is your approach to treating patients?

Patients with chronic diseases need caring as well as care. It's so important for me to educate patients so they feel more in control of their disease and their lives.

What innovations in medicine excite you the most?

As a recent graduate from fellowship, I learned about the most up-to-date treatments for rheumatic diseases, and I participated in multiple studies of new medications, working with well-known experts in the field of rheumatology. What is most exciting is that newer medications are being discovered to treat and put some of the rheumatologic diseases in remission faster.

What is the most enjoyable part of your day?

Helping patients feel better.

What do you do in your spare time?

I like to run, play with my dog and spend time with family and friends.

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Education

D.O., 2002, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
B.S., summa cum laude, 1998, Cedar Crest College, Allentown, Pa.

Residency in Internal Medicine

Lehigh Valley Hospital

Fellowship in Rheumatology

Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pa.

Board Certification

Board-certified in Internal Medicine
Board certified in Rheumatology

Publications

O'Brien MS, DeHoratius RJ. Managing the musculoskeletal complications of diabetes. J Muscoskel Med. 2007 Jan. 9-18.

Koenig AS, O'Brien MS, Jimenez SA. "Scleroderma," EMedicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Thomas Jefferson University (updated February 2007).

Spevak M, Snyder R. "Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever," EMedicine, Department of Medicine, Lehigh Valley Hospital, Allentown, Pa., August 1999.

Honors and Awards

Sigma Sigma Phi Honorary Osteopathic Service Fraternity - Zeta Chapter, 1998-2002
Summer Internship Program, Pool Trust Scholar, 1999
Fellow Recognition, American College of Rheumatology Conference, 2006
Rheumatology Fellows Mentoring Program/Annenberg Center for Health Sciences Scholarship, 2007