Benjamin Lipanot, MD

Clinical Assistant Professor 
Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine

What is your primary professional focus as it relates to our mission areas (clinical, research and/or medical education)?  
My primary outpatient focus is providing clinical care for patients with neuromuscular pulmonary problems that often require non-invasive or invasive ventilatory support at home. I'm especially interested in patients with muscular dystrophies, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injury as they transition from pediatric to adult care. I also love my time on our ICU and consultant pulmonary services. Working with trainees and students on in all of these areas and in the medical school keeps me energized.

What drew you to UW–Madison and the Department of Medicine?   
This position is a return home to Wisconsin for my wife and me. The collegiality and supportive nature of the division and entire department made it a welcome environment where I feel I can thrive personally and professionally. 

What are you most excited about during your first year with the department in this role?  
I am thrilled to continue to teach and learn from fellows, residents, and students. It has been a very positive experience re-establishing relationships with colleagues throughout all departments that were my mentors and teachers during medical school.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?  
Spending time with my wife and our two little girls brings me tremendous joy whether we are doing our daily tasks, stroller running/biking/skiing, walking the huskie, or getting in some miles on the Ice Age Trail. Being around extended family multiplies the fun. In the quiet moments of the day, I enjoy a good piece of fiction or a crossword puzzle.

Favorite piece of advice from a mentor or inspiring figure in your life?  
Heather Toth, my Med-Peds residency program director, always told us to "do what's best for the patient." This has empowered me to take the extra time for patient care, push my comfort level, and have difficult conversations with consultants and patients when that is needed. My grandmother provided the ultimate reminder of humility and equality by reminding me that "we are all children of God."