2021 Bayou Region Influencers | Dr. Nathan Sutton

Medical Director of Hospital Medicine at Terrebonne General Medical Center (TGMC)

Dr. Nathan Sutton began his medical career in Houma in 2017 at the Family Doctor Clinic.  In 2019 he joined the Terrebonne General Medical Center (TGMC) Hospital Medicine Group.  He now serves as the Medical Director of Hospital Medicine at TGMC.  During the past year, he played integral part on the hospitalist team that navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. He continues to be dedicated in the fight against COVID-19 to provide the most innovative treatment options available to patients.  He and his wife, Dr. Jill Sutton a pediatrician at TGMC welcomed their first child, a baby boy, in February of last year all while navigating a pandemic. 

What led you to the role you currently hold at the hospital? How did COVID-19 impact your role?    

“When I found out that TGMC was starting a hospitalist group, I wanted to be a part of it to be able to focus more on inpatient medicine. TGMC was putting together a great team, so I jumped at the chance to be a part of it.”

 What is the biggest challenge you have faced over the last year and how did you meet it? 

“COVID-19 was the biggest challenge I’ve faced this year. We created a COVID-19 Team at the hospital to manage the situation as it evolved. I did as much research about COVID-19 as I possibly could in order to do my best to treat patients and solve problems as they arose.  I am proud of how we all worked together as a team to meet the challenge of COVID-19 and keep our community as safe as possible.”

Do you have a set morning routine? 

“I usually wake up, get dressed, feed my son a bottle, then go to work. Nothing too exciting.”

What’s the one thing you can’t leave your house without each morning? 

“My cell phone. It’s the best way for everyone at work to get in touch with me.”

What is the best piece of advice you have ever gotten that you try to live by?

“Try to treat every patient as you would want your family member to be treated.”

What skill do you feel all successful doctors must possess? 

“The ability to feel empathy and compassion for their patients and their families. Communication skills are also very important.”

What has been your greatest accomplishment over the last year? 

“My wife and I raising my son, having him be healthy and happy while navigating a global pandemic, has been my greatest accomplishment over the last year.”

Are there any hobbies that you are currently pursuing?

“I recently got my private pilot’s license so I’ve enjoyed flying around. It’s really made it a lot easier to visit my family.”

Who are your greatest influencers?

“Dr. Brian Matherne and Dr. Russell Henry have both had a big impact on me as a physician, as have many of the other physicians I’ve worked with who have mentored me and helped me to develop my skills along the way.”

What are you most looking forward to in 2021?

“I’m hoping for as many people as possible to be vaccinated against COVID-19 so we can start to return to some sense of normalcy.  I’d really like to be able to spend more time with my family and friends this year and hopefully, go to some Saints and LSU games.”•