Getting to Know Dr. Carlos Barba
Dr. Carlos Barba is a board-certified general surgeon and weight loss specialist based out of Brownsville, Texas. While much of his time is spent performing general surgeries, Dr. Barba is also highly trained in bariatric procedures and is a proud member of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons (ASMBS). Dr. Barba also helped establish the first ASMBS Centers of Excellence in Connecticut, Cameron County, and Rio Grande Valley. As both a highly skilled and compassionate physician, Dr. Carlos Barba works diligently to ensure top-quality care.
1. How did you get started in this business?
Growing up I always wanted to be an active member of my local community, helping to cultivate positive change. By the time I graduated medical school I began to recognize the need for bariatric surgery in this area of Texas. Both Cameron County and Rio Grande Valley are underserved when it comes to medical care, so I knew that I had to bring my experience and expertise to help these communities.
2. How do you make money?
For me, my profession has never been about financial gain. I take great pride in my work and I am always searching for ways to improve my methods of patient care.
3. How long did it take for you to become profitable?
I am always working to provide top quality care to my patients. Following surgery I always take the time to ensure my patients are comfortable and well on their way to recovery. I also implement a customized treatment plan to ensure no complications.
4. When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
Right out of medical school, I always doubted my level of knowledge and expertise. I strived to be the best version of myself, but I was definitely afraid of failure. Confidence comes with experience, and now that I have served in the medical community for many years, I know that I have the expertise to ensure optimal results. My advice to anyone pursuing a career in the medical field would be to obtain a mentor. It helps to have someone who has been through a similar experience.
5. How did you get your first patient?
I received my first patient during medical school and I have treated thousands of individuals ever since. I consider myself to be a lifelong learner and I continue to provide the best possible care.
6. What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
I always treat my patients with the utmost respect. Respect is vital to establishing a sense of trust, and patients must have faith in your abilities as a medical professional.
7. What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
As a working professional, my days are often very busy, meaning my attention span is often stretched fairly thin. I think the toughest decision I have had to make in the past several months is delegating tasks to others. I am the type of person who takes pride in my work, so asking for additional help is always challenging for me.
8. What do you think it is that makes you successful?
I am a self-motivator, and I am always searching for new opportunities for both personal and professional growth. I genuinely enjoy the work that I do and I value the well-being of my patients.
9. What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
Having the opportunity to help someone improve their physical health is always deeply satisfying. I am thankful for every successful surgery and will continue to put my best foot forward. Additionally, helping to establish the first ASMBS Centers of Excellence in Connecticut, Cameron County, and Rio Grande Valley are also career highlights.
10. What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
The healthcare landscape is continuously evolving. I am always fascinated by the pace at which we see technological advancement. I look forward to seeing where bariatric surgery will be in ten years time.
11. What business books have inspired you?
I love reading and I often find myself picking up a good book. I would say anything by the American author James Patterson. I find his books to be great a distraction from everyday life and I consider him to be an amazing storyteller.
12. What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to spend less time worrying and more time living in the moment. During medical school I was always so consumed by my academic career, I spent more time worrying about my next exam than I did enjoying my spare time with my fellow peers. I think that while academic achievement is important, it is also crucial to obtain a proper work-life balance.
13. Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how should someone contact you?
I currently serve as a mentor and will continue to do so in the future. I think having someone to come to for advice is essential when trying to make your way in the medical field. I am always open to sharing my knowledge and expertise.
