For this month’s employee spotlight, we’re featuring Dr. Paul McNeill. With over 30 years of experience in practicing vascular surgery, Dr. McNeill has developed a clear expertise in the management of venous disease, and has been a steadfast leader at CVL since founding the practice with Dr. Garth Rosenberg in 2000.
Can you tell us about your professional background and what led you to join Capitol Vein & Laser Centers?
I am a board-certified vascular surgeon with 34 years of practice. I attended Georgetown University School of Medicine, and then trained in general surgery and vascular surgery at the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond. I served for four years in the United States Air Force as a vascular surgeon, including Desert Storm. I came to Frederick, Md., in 1994 and began practicing general vascular surgery. In 2000, Dr. Rosenberg and I established CVL.
What inspired you to pursue a career in vascular or aesthetic care?
While I was in the United States Air Force, I was able to take care of many young people who had venous disease. My experience and enjoyment of taking care of veins continued to be a core interest once I was in practice and was tending to many different vascular issues.
In my surgical residency, I had a particular affinity for blood vessel surgery. I enjoyed the challenge of it, the technical aspects, and the ability to play a critical role in solving difficult problems for my patients.
What is your current role at CVL, and what are your primary responsibilities?
I evaluate and treat patients with all types of venous disease, performing a variety of surgeries and other interventions, as well as interpreting diagnostic tests and counseling patients on their health.
Can you describe a typical day for you at the center?
A day of work at CVL is generally quite enjoyable, while also being challenging and stimulating. I always say, “my cup is full at the end of the day,” because I enjoy what I do: helping patients, using science and medicine, continuously learning, and using my hands to help others.
What are some of the most common conditions you treat?
The common conditions we treat are related to abnormalities in the veins, including blood clots, leg swelling, varicose veins, pain, and problems with the skin, including ulcers secondary to circulation issues. We also commonly treat spider veins, veins on the nose and cheeks and hand veins for elective cosmetic improvement.
Are there any recent conferences, seminars, or training sessions you’ve attended that were particularly beneficial?
Each year, I participate as a faculty member in the International Vein Congress in Miami, Fla. This past year was the 25th year of teaching physicians from around the world. It is a privilege to work alongside a distinguished faculty committed to advancing medical science.
I also attended a course at Harvard this year that reviewed all aspects of internal medicine with the perspective on what specialists need to know. I found this particularly interesting because there are many times that I discuss a patient’s medical problems outside of my domain. This helps me explain things in a way that is comforting to patients.
Do you have any tips for patients on how to maintain healthy veins and skin?
Remaining physically active is very important for your overall health and for the health of your legs. Just like the Department of Homeland Security, I tell patients, “See something. Say something,” as it pertains to any new abnormalities on the legs.
How do you approach patient care, and what do you believe is most important in treating patients?
I tell my patients, “I want you to know what I know about your legs.” This is very important to me because if the patient understands what’s happening and why I make recommendations for treatment, they can proceed without apprehension. An uninformed patient can’t proceed through treatment with peace of mind.
Can you share a memorable patient experience that had a significant impact on you?
Every day, patients and my staff have an impact on me. I am fortunate to experience very positive relationships on the job, share many laughs, and also have the opportunity to comfort and inform patients in a manner that positively impacts their lives.
What do you enjoy most about working here?
CVL is a fun place to work. We have a great staff that’s supportive of one another, mature, and accountable. The kind of work we do is very gratifying. We make a big impact on people’s quality of life. We also go above and beyond to help patients with their medical journey, even outside of our immediate domain.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your work at Capitol Vein & Laser Centers?
CVL is a very special place created by the efforts of everyone who works together here as a team. It is very common for patients to tell me that CVL is one of the finest practices they’ve ever been to. They often comment about how helpful and accommodating our staff are, how welcomed they feel, and how much trust they have in our care. I am often humbled by the positive comments that patients share about their doctor sending them to me because we are the best at what we do. I value the confidence my peers place in me.
I’ve been told by many physician colleagues that they know their patient will not just come to our practice and immediately be issued a treatment. They know how thoughtful and considerate we are, and how we will only do what’s best for the patient.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time outside of work?
I have a busy life outside of CVL, including spending time with my children, my new grandson, Teddy, and two very nice golden doodles. The dogs, Bonnie and Maisie, are often seen here in the office. I enjoy exercise, cooking, gardening, training my dogs, golf, skiing (I went helicopter skiing the last two winters), reading, playing the guitar and piano, and spending time with friends and family. I hope to make the trek to Normandy soon as a bucket list trip.
Can you share a fun fact about yourself that patients might not know?
I am a good friend, and I always emphasize that you can’t keep score with friendship. You’ve got to be willing to pick up the phone, write the email, or do whatever is needed to be with the people you love. It doesn’t matter who initiates the effort; being together is life-giving.
You can meet Dr. McNeill at any of our locations. To schedule an appointment, call 866-695-8346.