For over 60 years, Sheldon Wagman, DO ’67, touched countless lives through compassionate psychiatric care. Recently retired, Dr. Wagman remains proud of his PCOM roots and is dedicated to supporting the next generation of PCOM physicians.
Q: Tell us about your journey as a DO in psychiatry.
A: When I started, being a DO meant being the underdog. We didn’t receive the same respect as MDs, and the AOA faced constant pressure about the legitimacy of the DO degree. In fact, my first two years of DO residency were not recognized at my initial position because I wasn’t MD-trained. Consequently, I was required to fulfill an additional three-year training program at an MD institution, making me a psychiatric resident for five years! Throughout my career, I have been gratified to see the DO and MD certifying programs create parity between the degrees.
Despite those challenges, I was committed to the osteopathic philosophy. In my fourth year at PCOM, my career in psychiatry was solidified, as I gained clinical experience at a Pennsylvania state-run psychiatric hospital near West Chester. From there, I had a fulfilling career. I spent 25 years practicing adolescent psychiatry at Friends Hospital in Philadelphia. Then, in 1996, after moving across the country to Arizona, I served as chairman and professor of the Department of Psychiatry at the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine – Midwestern University while concurrently developing a diversified private practice. It has been a remarkable journey. PCOM crystallized who I am as a medical professional and person.
Q: What are some key insights from your career?
A: First impressions matter. That initial interaction with a patient sets the tone, so being a good listener is essential. Patients come to you in need—be fully present with no distractions. I always say, the patient knows how they feel; you are the consultant who is there to guide them back to renewed good health. Compassion is crucial in this field. Every patient is different, and kindness goes a long way. Stay humble, ask questions, keep learning—but most importantly, don’t let medicine consume your entire being.
Learn to enjoy and participate in your life outside of your career.
Q: You and your wife, Judith, established a scholarship fund, the Dr. Sheldon & Judith Wagman Endowed Scholarship Fund. What inspired you to support PCOM in this way?
A: I would never have been able to reach my level of expertise without PCOM. My wife and I have always felt that the best way to show how much we appreciate what we have received is to give back so others who are less fortunate or are in need can benefit and move forward in their lives. In this way, it is our hope that those who have benefited will give back and set a positive example, one building upon another.
