February Doctor of the Month: Dr. Behin Barahimi

When and why did you decide to pursue ophthalmology?

From the time I was in Kindergarten, I knew I wanted to be a doctor. Once I started medical school, I was drawn to Ophthalmology as I had a younger cousin who developed a life-threatening tumor in her eye. Her ophthalmologist was able to cure her, but her eye had to be removed for the treatment.  During my rotations in medical, I kept thinking about my cousin, her Ophthalmologist, and what a pivotal role this physician played in her life. I knew this was the career path for me.

Where do you practice?

Vanderbilt Eye Institute and I see patients in our Nashville, Franklin, and Lebanon offices.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome in your career so far?

How to balance my commitments and obligation to my patients and family, while still finding time to care for myself. 

What are you most proud of, both in your career and personally?

Personally, I am proud to be the daughter of immigrant parents who worked hard to put me through medical school and taught me that with hard work and perseverance anything is possible. And now I am trying to teach my own children this lesson. In my career, I am proud to have the privilege to serve my patients at Vanderbilt during their most vulnerable times, while also helping to teach the next generation of Ophthalmologists to carry on this very important work.

How do you spend your time away from work?

If I am not at work then I am home with my kids making cookies, building Legos, or putting together a puzzle.

Although 2020 has been challenging, what has been a bright spot for you?

Having the opportunity to spend more time with my kids and teaching them how to ride their bikes without training wheels.

Quick hits

Coffee or tea? Tea

Favorite music/band/singer? Depends on my mood so I can’t pick one favorite

Cats or dogs? Neither, with 3 young kids I just don’t have time for fur babies right now

Kindle/book/audiobook? Paper books for me

Favorite show (all-time or right now)? FRIENDS

Beach or mountains? Beach

Comfort food? Mac and cheese

Twitter:@bbarahimi

Facebook: Behin Barahimi

Instagram:@drbehinbarahimi