DR. CZULEGER IS PART OF A GROUP OF LOCAL PHYSICIANS WHO TRAVEL TO WORLDWIDE DISASTER AREAS, WHERE HE TAKES HIS SKILLS AND PERSONALITY TO CARE FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE IN TRAUMATIC SITUATIONS.
Present. Available. Reassuring.
Dr. Peter Czuleger might have been happiest as a doctor of an earlier time in history when his medical expertise, philosophy as a physician and reassuring words during office visits, house calls and phone calls would have been the norm. Instead, he finds himself a practicing physician in this time of focus on medical metrics and focuses on technology as a tool for measuring outcomes. His style of medicine doesn’t fit with standards set for a number of minutes with each patient as he takes time with the people he sees as patients.
While we, as patients, have been in the presence of the computer keyboard and monitor vs. the eyes and ears of an actual physician, Peter continues to look at and listen to his patients in determining the medical problem and the best way to communicate so we can hear him and are prepared for what needs to happen — sometimes it’s nothing more than wait and other times tests to determine proper treatment or referrals to specialists.
When I think about the times I’ve been in his care, the first thing I recall is his attention to me as a whole person. Many others would say the same thing. We all know he listens with compassion. We see it in his eyes and hear it in the way he asks questions, listens to concerns and then communicates what he thinks, how he is going to check things out and ultimately conveys his conclusions.
Yes, he uses technology as a tool. His training and his character — to be absolutely present for the person and whatever is happening from an imaginary medical issue based on fear, a minor issue or something that might be very serious. He is always reassuring in his approach. He has the same respect for the smallest concern and the simplest question and frantic appeals for help because of intense pain or frightening symptoms.
Smartphones and computer technology have become important tools in Peter’s medical practice. He gladly incorporates technology in the mix of caring for people. Patients are able to reach him directly, by text or by voice mail at any time from any place. Again, he is present, available and reassuring.
Because of personal experience with Peter’s country doctor approach in the 21st century, he became a member of the Mission Hospital Foundation staff, providing support for donors on an as-needed basis. He never disappointed us or our donors. Many decided they liked his style and regularly sought his advice and counsel.
Peter is not confined to work in South Orange County, he is part of a group of local physicians who travel to worldwide disaster areas where he takes his skills and personality to care for people who are in traumatic situations. He may be in a disaster zone for weeks at a time, returning home exhausted, but satisfied that he made a difference in the lives of many who were suffering. This is just another example of his kind and caring nature.
Peter’s mother once told the story of his comforting her while he stood behind her in the back seat while she was driving the car. All of his siblings were acting with utter chaos in the car and nothing seemed to calm the children. She then felt little pats on her shoulder and then heard Peter, her five-year-old boy say, “It’s going to be okay mama.” She never forgot it and saw that he carried this with him throughout his life and this is the key to his medical practice — a man with an observant and good mind, combined with a kind and compassionate heart.
Dr. Czuleger was the recipient of the 2018 Sister Martha Ann Fitzpatrick Vision Award from the Mission Hospital Foundation. This award is bestowed on an individual (or group) who is committed to values that include: compassion, dignity, excellence, integrity and justice, and Peter exemplifies them. On the evening the award was presented to him, the people in the room came from all backgrounds — we were all proud to know him as we stood together united in giving him a standing ovation.
Our 21st Century country doctor was honored for his kindness and compassion.
Dr. Peter Czuleger, a man who shuns recognition, accepted this award with grace and dignity. I believe it was true to his nature — he let us recognize him because it was something we needed more than he did.
Mission Heritage Medical Group
26800 Crown Valley Pkwy #150
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
(949) 276-2111
