By Knoxville News Sentinel Staff
Shannon Beierle, 39, general surgeon, Premier Surgical Associates
Shannon Beierle, MD, FACS, brought advanced bariatric and robotic surgery to under served communities in Cleveland, Tennessee. Her list of achievements is long, including being named chief resident and the top laparoscopic resident in 2019.
She leads the robotics program at the Parkwest Medical Center in Knoxville where she works and, as a parent of three, brings motherly compassion to patient care, focusing on minimally invasive surgery techniques.
When you reflect on your career so far, which achievement stands out most?
I’m not sure there is one single achievement, but rather the privilege of being a surgeon is so unique. I am in a field where I meet people when they are sick and hurting, and they put their full trust in me at a vulnerable time. To be able to help them get through that moment and then to see them follow-up in clinic a few weeks later, usually back enjoying their family, friends and life. It’s an achievement that continues to invigorate me each and every day to continue to push and work hard.
What is the greatest professional obstacle you’ve had to overcome and how did you overcome it?
While women have made large strides in many areas, not many young surgeons are mothers too. I had my first child when I was in medical school, and I know many people expected me to fail, thinking it would be too hard to be both a mom and a surgeon in training. I overcame this obstacle with the help of my amazing husband, who has continually supported me emotionally and stepped up for equal co-parenting of our kids. I also leaned heavily on my village, finding friendships and support through day care teachers, church members and colleagues.
What will you focus on in 2025?
My focus for 2025 will be continuing to expand the robotic surgery and acute care surgery program at Parkwest Medical Center.
What is your biggest professional dream?
My biggest professional dream is to stay sharp and current on surgical techniques so I can continue to work in this role for decades to come. I also hope to continue to work mentoring young adults, especially women, looking to go into medicine and surgery.
What mistake did you learn the most from?
Early on in my recent role, I became so focused on being the hardest worker, being there the most hours and taking the least time off. This was a recipe to get burned out! Fortunately, I recognized it. I hired more help, and I agreed to take more time off intermittently throughout the year, which allows me to be more refreshed and compassionate the rest of the year.
What motivates you?
The relationships I get to develop with my patients and the excitement of seeing them feel better.
What is the most overrated piece of business advice you’ve heard?
“If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.” I do love what I do, but not every day will be roses and sunshine. Some days are hard, some are painful, and many are joyful and exciting. You can fulfill your calling and still have days where it feels hard and isn’t fun.
What trait do you most want in a co-worker?
Being optimistic or having a positive attitude is the most important trait. If you look for things to complain about, there will always be many options, and a negative attitude can be very contagious to the other people working with you.
What about Knoxville would you like to improve?
I’ll start by saying I’ve lived in many cities, and Knoxville is by far my favorite. So, I actually don’t think there is much I would change. In my field, I think we have made some strides in communication between the medical facilities. But I also think there is still room to improve the coordination between all of the medical facilities, which would ultimately benefit all of the patients in Knoxville.
Shannon Beierle,MD, FACS is a general surgeon with Premier Surgical at Parkwest Medical Center in Knoxville, TN. She serves as a Surgicalist, treating acute care patients who come to the Parkwest Emergency Room.