Amy C. Lin, M.D.

I was born in Taipei, Taiwan, and immigrated to Southern California in 1988. I attended Mayfield Senior High in Pasadena. Subsequently, I majored Human Biology during my Stanford years and decided to pursue the field of medicine. I attended Penn State for my medical school and came back to California for residency. I was very attracted to internal medicine because of its emphasis on treating the whole patient, and providing compassionate and comprehensive care.

My grandmother in Taiwan has many chronic medical issues: renal issues, heart issues and digestive issues, just to name a few. One of her problems was recurrent atrial fibrillation (irregular heart rhythm )which often led to fainting episodes. I had talked to her on several occasions and recommended a pacemaker, as this should be an easily treated problem.

I remember how my grandmother resisted getting a pacemaker. She was worried, distrustful of the medical system and really did not have a primary care physician who cared for her.

I had decided then that I wanted to become that primary care physician that my grandmother never had. I want to be there for my patients, to build that trust and lasting bond between the patient and the physician. So that when the time comes where the patient is facing a difficult medical decision, he or she would feel that they have a advocate in the medical field—which is me, their primary care physician.

I love practicing medicine. I strive to make a difference everyday, whether it be that extra counseling about diet and exercise, or talking to my patient about why it's okay to take depression medication, or pushing for that colonoscopy. I also love making them laugh and talking about what's going on in their lives. I love medicine not just because of the medical side of it, but also because of the rich human interactions I have with my patients on a daily basis. I am very grateful and feel privileged that I have such a fulfilling job. My patients inspire me everyday in so many different ways.

I strongly believe in preventive medicine and strive to make sure all the health care maintenance issues are taken care of at each visit. I also believe that patients should be partners with their doctor. My style of practice is always to involve my patients in decision making.

During my leisure time, I enjoy reading, running, doing step aerobics, hiking with my kids. I hope to participate in another half Marathon next year and perhaps a Triathlon. Cooking, eating and attending Stanford games are also some of my favorite activities.

I hope you have gotten to know me a little better by reading the above excerpt about me. I hope to get to know you better too.

Dr. Lin enjoys Bikram yoga, boot camp classes, swimming and an occasional tennis match. She also enjoys listening to Klove, drinking tea and reading all at the same time. She loves going to Color Me Mine with her daughter to do some pottery painting. Dr. Lin also enjoys having philosophical discussions with her kids about the meaning of life. Life is full of wonderful surprises!