A Brief Interview with Retiring Faculty Diane Madlon-Kay, MD, MS

Recently, Diane Madlon-Kay, MD, MS, retired from her practice and her role as professor in the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health. The following is a brief interview with Dr. Madlon-Kay.

What were some memorable moments in your career?

My most memorable moments are related to some of my research studies. I'm a native of upstate New York, so was thrilled when I was interviewed years ago by a New York Times reporter about one of my projects for an article. My study that got the most publicity was one on stretch marks in pregnancy. Reporters from two Twin Cities TV news programs came to my clinic and interviewed me about the study. An article about the study was on the front page of USA Today as well as in several magazines.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the people the most – Smiley's Clinic faculty colleagues, residents, patient care and clinic staff. They are all dedicated to making the residency program and clinic the best they can be in very challenging times.

What do you plan on spending more time on now and in the future?

My husband is also retiring this month. We have several trips planned. The first is a bicycle trip in Egypt in November. We also look forward to spending more time with our grandchildren who live in Japan.

What does the practice of family medicine mean to you?

Family medicine is the only specialty that provides comprehensive, "womb to tomb" health care for the individual and family. I enjoyed taking care of some patients and families for over 30 years. I continued delivering babies, my favorite part of practice, until retirement. (And I cared for many of those babies into young adulthood.) Clinic was never dull because patients often presented with new and puzzling symptoms. There was always more to learn.