About Dr. Poulin It may surprise you to know that, originally, Dr. Thomas Poulin intended to become a dentist. However, his fraternity brothers had other ideas. They encouraged him to attend medical school with them at Indiana University School of Medicine – and the rest, as they say, is history. When it comes to his patients, Dr. Poulin believes that one-to-one communication is first and foremost. “I don’t use PAs or RNAs,” he says. “My patients have taught me the importance of listening to each and every one of them and personally understanding their symptoms. That makes diagnosis and treatment easier, and ultimately makes for better care.” In his own words… Who is or was the most influential person/role model in your life? My parents, and the surgical staff I worked with during my residency at Medical College of Wisconsin. Do you come from a long line of physicians? No, I don’t. But I did have one uncle who was a doctor. What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it? I was a grade school cafeteria dishwasher! I got free lunch as payment. What is your favorite food? Movie? My favorite food is Dover sole. I like any James Bond movie. What were your best/worst subjects in school growing up? My favorite subject in school was Math. My worst was French class. If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased) who would it be and why? Jesus Christ. In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? I am most passionate about my family. My favorite hobby is golf. What question are you asked most often by those outside of medicine? How do you get up so early? What is something most people don’t know about you? My wife and I have been together for 58 years!