About Dr. Berkson Dr. Andrew Berkson has a family tree full of physicians, including his father, great grandfather, two uncles and four cousins. “There always seemed to be an expectation in my family that I would be a physician,” he says, “and I resisted this path for a long time.” At age 34 – after trying multiple and diffuse career paths – he finally came to the realization that medicine was where he belonged. “I returned to college to complete the prerequisite courses and started medical school when I was 37.” As a physiatrist, Dr. Berkson practices conservative spine care. As he explains, 90% of back and neck pain are not surgical issues. “That creates a great need for physicians that practice as I do, in concert with neurosurgery, neurology and pain management. I have a strong mechanical background, and what I do is strongly rooted in the mechanics and electrical circuits of the human body.” He joined the Beacon team for its excellent reputation and the opportunity to enjoy doing what he loves. “Coming to the South Bend area was also a chance to bring my family home as both my wife and I were born and raised in Michigan City.” Dr. Berkson’s practice philosophy is both simple and profound. “Once you are my patient, I view you as a member of my family, and I will treat you as I would treat a family member. I’ll always do my best to help you.” In His Own Words Who is or was the most influential person/role model in your life? My father who was a physician and a kind, brilliant man. What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it? I worked at a nursing home cleaning, mopping floors, doing maintenance, etc. What were your best/worst subjects in school growing up? I hated algebra but loved English. If you could sit down to dinner with anyone, alive or deceased, who would it be and why? Abraham Lincoln.  I think the “why” is self-evident. In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? What are your hobbies, interests? I love my family, and my daughter is my greatest joy. We love dogs, and my wife used to run an animal rescue in Texas. We have always had multiple dogs (currently five with an all-time high of seven). I have an old Triumph TR6 that I enjoy working on and driving.