Dr. Catherine Agustiady-Becker, an emergency medicine physician at Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital, starts her workday with Matcha lemonade in a big, tall Bubba cup.
From there, it’s about helping a wide variety of people with the commonality that they’re all turning to the emergency physicians for help at a time when they need it most.
Growing up, Agustiady-Becker’s mother was her biggest influence as a woman with strength and resilience. She misses her father, who died when she was 15, but is thankful for the 15 years she had with him.
Now a parent of her own, she had her three kids while still graduating on time.
What do you love most about emergency medicine?
That we get to meet and help all different types of people — all different races, different social groups and different ages.
What’s the one thing you can’t start your shift without?
Matcha lemonade in a big, tall Bubba cup.
Why did you choose emergency medicine as a career?
I love the diversity of the patient population, and I love the strong team focus in in the emergency department.
Who was your biggest influence growing up?
My mom. Her strength and resilience amaze me, and to me, she is the quintessential matriarch.
What would you differently if you had a chance?
Learn more about finances early on in my career as a student.
What are you most proud of accomplishing?
Having my three kids in medical school and residency, and being able to graduate both on time with my colleagues.
How has emergency medicine changed since you started your career?
I remember how liberal we were with pain medications as an intern in residency. We are now facing the repercussions of that era, and I think now we spend a lot of time trying to educate the public of the dangers of overusing pain medications.
Describe a watershed moment in your life.
The death of my dad when I was 15. I had always been a daddy’s girl, so his death was extremely devastating for me (and my entire family). I still miss him every day. Despite losing him far too soon, I feel blessed to have had him in my life for 15 years.
Describe your personal philosophy on work.
To make sure that everyone feels a part of the team in the ED. I ultimately make the final decision in my patients’ care, but I think it’s important to get input from everyone involved.
What was your first impression of ACEP/VACEP?
I was amazed at how many of our colleagues are working tirelessly behind the scenes to advocate on our behalf and for our profession.
What do you find the most challenging about working in emergency medicine?
It can be demoralizing when we become an easy target for patients and other consultants who are tired of the system. You just have to take it shift by shift and remember that ultimately you are trying to advocate and do the best for your patients.
How would you like to see ACEP/VACEP improve?
By engaging younger doctors.
Describe the happiest day of your life.
The happiest three days of my life were the days my sons were born.
When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Doctor.
What are your three biggest pet peeves?
Laziness, selfishness and arrogance.
What do you think are the best skills you bring to your job?
My ability to go with the flow. It takes a lot to tick me off.
Describe a place you’ve traveled to and really enjoyed.
I love my home country of Indonesia, and Bali has some of the most beautiful beaches and the yummiest food.
What are some causes you care about?
Climate change and sustainability.
If it was your last day on Earth and you could eat anything, what would you want your last meal to be? Crabcakes, shrimp, oysters.
What’s your favorite time of day?
Nighttime. Some quiet time with my husband after the kids go to bed.
