Featured Member of the Month (Sept. 2023): Dr. Aparna Baheti

How and why did you start practicing in the field of vein/lymphatic care?

I began my journey in venous care during my interventional and diagnostic residency in 2014. It was in 2019, during my first year of practice, that I developed a keen interest in venous disease. Dr. Emil Hurst, a mentor with over 20 years of experience in treating venous patients, played a significant role in shaping my passion for this field. I consider his guidance a valuable extension of my IR fellowship, and I continue to seek his advice on challenging cases.

I was fortunate to be one of the first users in this region for novel large-bore mechanical thrombectomy devices, and have used my knowledge and experience to train and facilitate use of these devices with my colleagues.

How long have you been a member of the AVLS and why did you decide to join?

I became a member of AVLS in 2021. I became a diplomate with the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine (ABVLM) earlier that year at the suggestion of Dr. Hurst. I joined AVLS after spending time with Dr. Chris Pittman and recognizing the importance of subspecialization in Vascular and Interventional Radiology.

In what ways has the AVLS helped you as a vein/lymphatic care provider?

AVLS's multidisciplinary membership has been invaluable to me. It allows me to interact with colleagues from various endovascular specialties, expanding my knowledge base and enhancing my expertise in the field.

Any advice for your peers new to the field?

I encourage new graduates to seek learning opportunities beyond traditional conferences and resources. Social media platforms like "The BackTable Podcast" provide excellent resources to enhance their practice. Seeking mentorship from professionals outside their immediate circle can offer fresh perspectives and better approaches.

What resources does the AVLS provide that would benefit them?

AVLS offers resources such as the Phlebology Journal, which provides insightful research and studies. They also offer practice management resources that can help younger doctors gain a better understanding of the business aspects of medicine.

When you are not at work, how do you spend your time?

Living in the Pacific Northwest, I love spending time outdoors whenever possible, connecting with nature and enjoying the beauty of the region.

About Dr. Baheti

Dr. Baheti is a board certified Vascular and Interventional Radiologist based in Tacoma, Washington. She completed undergrad, medical school, residency, and fellowship at the University of Virginia. Her clinical interests lie in peripheral arterial disease, venous thromboembolic disease, superficial venous disease and women's health. She is a co-host of "The BackTable Podcast", which discusses all-things endovascular and interventional.

Dr. Baheti is board certified by the American Board of Radiology and holds several notable credentials, including being a Diplomate of the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine (ABVLM) and a Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation (RPVI). She is an active member of professional societies such as the Society of Interventional Radiology, the American College of Radiology, the Society of Vascular Medicine, the American Venous and Lymphatic Society, and the Outpatient Endovascular and Interventional Society.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Dr. Baheti is a devoted mother to three young girls. In her free time, she enjoys travel and sport-climbing.