Andrew Spiel, MD

Assistant Professor
Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology

What is your primary professional focus in any or all of our mission areas (clinical, research, and/or medical education)?
My focus in joining the faculty is twofold. I care about education and value the institution responsible for most of my training. I became a Badger and want to keep the focus on education (myself included!). Second, I believe obesity is one of the most significant public health crises facing my generation of physicians. Obesity is not an individual issue. It's a community issue. I hope to provide a GI prospective in joining the fight in making our community healthier!

What drew you to UW-Madison and the Department of Medicine?
What's not to like? The Terrace, the sports, the community, the lakes, the outdoors, I can even get on board with the weather. UW drew me in because they are invested in forward thinking and lifelong learning.

What are you most excited about during your first year with the department in this role?
It's an odd way to start a career in midst of a pandemic. I am excited about some positive changes that may come from this within healthcare and access to patients via telemedicine. I am ultimately looking forward to establishing a GI presence within a multidisciplinary metabolic and weight loss clinic.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
Being outdoors! I love exploring with my two-year-old daughter. She has a great sense for fun things to do outside, although I am less enthusiastic about kissing worms than she is.

Favorite piece of advice from a mentor or inspiring figure in your life?
A quote: To make life a little better for people less fortunate than you, that's what I think a meaningful life is. One lives not just for oneself but for one's community. - RBG