Indian American health leader Dr. Tejesh Patel has been appointed to a dual chair role at the University of Tennessee Health Sciences College of Medicine to lead both pathology and dermatology departments
Patel, who has served as interim chair of Department of Pathology since March 2024 and as chair of the Kaplan-Amonette Department of Dermatology since 2018, will now lead both departments, according to a university announcement.
“Being both a dermatologist and dermatopathologist, I am able to see firsthand the vital role pathology has in clinical practice and patient care,” Patel stated. “Leading both departments as chair is not only an honor but an opportunity to deepen collaborations and advance innovations that strengthen clinical care. I look forward to building on the strengths of both departments as we expand the impact of our College of Medicine.”
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As one of the few physicians trained and board certified in both dermatology and dermatopathology, Patel brings a unique perspective to the role. His experience caring for patients while also interpreting the pathology that guides diagnosis and treatment positions him to strengthen collaboration between two specialties that are closely connected in medicine, the university stated.
“Dr. Patel is an exceptional physician, educator and leader, who has earned the trust and respect of colleagues across our university,” stated Michael Hocker, MD, executive dean of the College of Medicine. “I’m confident that his experience bridging these clinical disciplines will help him lead both departments well.”
In addition to his academic roles, Patel will continue to oversee the dermatology department’s clinical practice through University Clinical Health. The practice delivers comprehensive dermatologic services for patients of all ages, including medical and surgical treatment for conditions affecting the skin, hair, nails and mucous membranes, helping expand access to specialty care across the Mid-South.
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Patel completed an internal medicine internship and dermatology residency at the UT Health Sciences College of Medicine before completing fellowships at Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He returned to UT Health Sciences as faculty in 2012, where he continues to educate the next generation of physicians and advance patient care across the region.
Dr. Patel is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and a member of the Tennessee Dermatology Society and the Memphis Dermatology Society.
He has authored and co-authored more than 70 medical publications, book chapters and scientific presentations. In recognition of his professional accomplishments and community leadership, he was named one of the Memphis Business Journal’s Top 40 Under 40 in 2018.