Arie P Francis, MD

·         How did you come to choose your service line area?  Do you have a personal history with this area or did something unique about it spark your interest?  

I’ve always been curious about how things work from an early age. After what some might call a love affair with Biophysics and biochemistry in undergraduate education, it only seemed like a logical step to transition to applying this knowledge towards medicine on a regular basis. Medical Toxicology filled that void. Emergency medicine created an outlet for the inability to focus whole-heartedly on one field, only because I like too many things. I’d still like to reduce a shoulder or two in between treating someone in acute heart failure. 

·         What particularly, from your patients’ perspective makes you well suited to help them with their condition – research, areas of specialization, years of experience?  

I come from a somewhat unique background having been a technician in many disciplines aside from medicine. Additionally, as an emergency physician and medical toxicologist, the knowledge base is very broad and requires a decent level of understanding about multiple specialties and treatment modalities to appropriately direct treatments for those under my care. 

·         Are there any research areas that you have been particularly involved with that are relevant to this area of specialization?  

Toxic alcohols and cost-effective medicine have always been an interest. Additionally, laboratory technique and procedures have also been an interest as well. 

·         Are you a long-term Stony Brook resident?  Do you have a story to tell about your connection to Suffolk County – you may not and that is fine too!!  

I’m a relatively fresh transplant from California. Residency was a very positive experience so much so that I found my way back here. 

·         Do you have any personal passion that might spark interest – e.g. an athlete or skier who works in ortho?  A special interest in pediatrics or a family history with heart disease or other condition relevant to your area of specialization?  
I have a strong passion for medical toxicology. I’ve found it intriguing from day one. Witnessing addiction close to home first captured my attention given the broad overlap between addiction medicine and medical toxicology. Ever since learning how to treat not only those struggling with addiction but also the acute intoxications, I’ve developed a passion for emergency medicine and medical toxicology.