Experience,a precious commodity,is frequently enough fleeting. Yet, in medicine, it’s an invaluable asset, as demonstrated by Dr. Mercedes Cuesta, Medical Director of Hospital Ruber Internacional in Madrid. Celebrating 50 years as a physician in 2025, Dr. Cuesta embodies the essence of a healer, combining profound knowledge with genuine empathy, humility, and a dedication to patient well-being.
Her journey began fueled by a childhood immersed in medicine, watching her physician father. Medicine wasn’t just a career choice; it was a calling.
Her passion lead her to specialize in Intensive Care, were she thrived in a collaborative environment. Joining Hospital Ruber Internacional in 1993, she ascended to Medical Director in 2005, ensuring she remained connected to patient care.
“I never stopped seeing patients,” she emphasizes. “It’s essential to maintain that connection, to stay grounded.”
Dr. Cuesta’s commitment to her patients extends beyond their physical health. She recognizes the profound impact of emotional well-being, treating each individual with respect, understanding, and personalized care.”Empathy is paramount,” she states. “It’s about treating patients as equals, with warmth and genuine concern.”
Navigating the challenges of a demanding career while raising a family wasn’t easy. Dr. Cuesta acknowledges the unwavering support of her husband and children, who understood her dedication.
“Without their support,it wouldn’t have been possible,” she reflects.
Her leadership style prioritizes collaboration, trust, and mutual respect, fostering a supportive environment where everyone feels valued.
“I believe in empowering individuals, creating a sense of shared duty,” she explains.Hospital Ruber Internacional’s reputation for excellence attracts prominent figures,but Dr.cuesta emphasizes that their commitment remains unwavering, regardless of patient status.
“Every patient deserves our utmost care and attention,” she asserts.
Technological advancements have revolutionized medicine, offering new diagnostic tools and treatment options. Dr. Cuesta embraces these innovations, recognizing their potential to enhance patient care.
“Artificial intelligence will play a transformative role in healthcare,” she predicts. “It’s not about replacing doctors but about empowering them with valuable tools.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Cuesta envisions a future where technology facilitates hospital-at-home care, improving patient comfort and accessibility.
“Keeping patients in familiar surroundings whenever possible enhances their well-being,” she explains.
While facing numerous challenges throughout her career, the COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented hurdles.
“It was a demanding but ultimately rewarding experience,” she reflects.”It reinforced the importance of compassion, resilience, and human connection.”
Dr. Cuesta’s passion for medicine remains undiminished.
“I’ll continue seeing patients as long as I’m healthy and they’ll allow me,” she declares.”Young doctors bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm, complementing the wisdom gained through experience. Together,we can continue to advance healthcare and improve patient lives.”
How has Dr. Cuesta’s approach to patient care evolved with advancements in medical technology?
Interview with Dr. Mercedes Cuesta: A legacy of Compassion in Medicine
Time.news Editor: Dr. Cuesta, thank you for joining us today. As you approach an amazing milestone of 50 years in medicine in 2025, can you share how your journey began and what inspired you to become a physician?
Dr. Mercedes Cuesta: Thank you for having me. My journey began in my childhood, watching my father, who was also a physician. Medicine was not just a career path for me; it was truly a calling. Growing up in that environment instilled a deep passion for healing and serving others, which has guided me throughout my career.
Time.news Editor: You’ve specialized in Intensive Care and have held the position of Medical Director at hospital Ruber Internacional since 2005. What have you learned from your experiences in leadership and patient care that you’d like to share with young doctors entering the field?
Dr. Mercedes Cuesta: It’s essential to stay connected to patient care, no matter how high up you get in your career. I’ve always prioritized seeing patients firsthand. This connection grounds me and helps me remember the true purpose of our work: treating individuals with respect and compassion. For young doctors, I advise them to nurture their empathy and always treat patients as equals.
Time.news Editor: Your emphasis on empathy and emotional well-being is striking. Can you elaborate on how you approach patient care beyond just physical health?
Dr. Mercedes Cuesta: Empathy is paramount in medicine. Each patient is a person with their own story, fears, and emotions. My approach is to treat them with genuine concern and understanding. I believe in a holistic approach to healthcare, considering emotional and mental well-being just as important as physical health. Personalized care can substantially impact healing and recovery.
Time.news editor: balancing a demanding career with family life is a challenge many face. How did you navigate this during your tenure?
Dr. Mercedes Cuesta: It certainly hasn’t been easy, but I was fortunate to have unwavering support from my husband and children. Their understanding of my dedication to medicine made it possible for me to thrive both at home and in my career. communication and mutual respect were key.
Time.news Editor: With advancements in medical technology, how do you see artificial intelligence influencing patient care in the future?
Dr. Mercedes Cuesta: I’m excited about the role artificial intelligence will play in healthcare. It’s not about replacing physicians but empowering them with valuable tools to enhance patient care. The future holds the potential for better diagnostics and treatment options that can lead to improved outcomes.
Time.news Editor: You’ve mentioned your vision for hospital-at-home care. Can you explain how this model could improve patient experience and well-being?
Dr.Mercedes Cuesta: Keeping patients in familiar surroundings, whenever feasible, significantly enhances their comfort and well-being. Hospital-at-home care allows for personalized attention while reducing the stress associated with hospital stays. It’s an innovative approach that aligns with our commitment to patient-centered care.
Time.news Editor: The COVID-19 pandemic put enormous pressure on healthcare systems worldwide. How did that experience shape your views on medicine and patient care?
Dr.Mercedes cuesta: The pandemic was indeed a challenging period, but it also reinforced the importance of compassion, resilience, and human connection in medicine.It reminded us that healthcare is not just about treating diseases; it’s about caring for individuals during their most vulnerable moments.
Time.news Editor: As you look to the future of medicine, what do you hope to see evolve in the industry?
Dr.Mercedes Cuesta: I hope to see a stronger emphasis on collaboration among healthcare professionals. Young doctors bring fresh perspectives that, combined with the wisdom gained from experience, can lead to innovative healthcare solutions. together, we can continue to improve patient lives and advance our field.
Time.news Editor: Dr. Cuesta, it’s been a pleasure talking with you. Your insights into the healing profession and the future of healthcare are truly inspiring. Thank you for your commitment to patient care and for sharing your journey with us.
Dr. Mercedes Cuesta: Thank you for the opportunity. I’m passionate about continuing to serve my patients and the healthcare community for provided that I can.