Hany S. Zekry, DO

Physician Empowers Patients Through Education

“I want my patients to feel heard, understand their health, and know why we’re taking each step in their care.”

Becoming a physician seemed almost inevitable for Hany S. Zekry, DO. From the time he was young, his family expected that he would someday become a doctor. He ultimately became the first physician in his family — and helped inspire younger cousins, nieces and nephews to follow in his footsteps.

For Dr. Zekry, however, medicine has always been about something simple: helping people and making a positive difference in their lives.

He grew up and studied in Egypt, where he earned his medical degree and practiced as a physician before moving to the United States in 2008. He later completed his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree in the U.S. Although he initially planned to pursue rehabilitation medicine, he found himself increasingly drawn to family medicine and its remarkable breadth.

“I like being able to care for the whole person,” he says. “Family medicine gives you the opportunity to address everything from an immediate health concern to chronic conditions and preventive care.”

That whole-person approach begins with listening. When patients are talking, Dr. Zekry makes a point of giving them his full attention rather than focusing on a computer screen or interrupting to move the visit along. “When people feel heard, it builds trust,” he says. “That makes it easier for us to work together to improve their health.”

Patient education is another important part of that partnership. Dr. Zekry doesn’t want patients simply to leave the office with a prescription or treatment plan. He wants them to understand it. Whether he is explaining why a medication is needed, demonstrating the proper way to use an inhaler or talking through lifestyle changes, Dr. Zekry takes the time to help patients understand what they can do to improve their health.

“Education can make a tremendous difference,” he says. “When patients understand their treatment and why it matters, they’re better equipped to get the full benefit from it.” Seeing those efforts translate into better health is what continues to motivate Dr. Zekry.

Outside the office, Dr. Zekry is a longtime soccer enthusiast who enjoys both playing and watching the sport and has also spent time coaching. When he’s not on the field, he enjoys reading and spending time with his family.