Parul Chhatpar, DO
Q: What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
PC: At the age of eleven I was home one summer when our DirecTV got stuck on Turner Classic Movies. I didn’t know how to change the channel on the satellite box, so I just kept watching. What started as a random glitch, turned into a lifelong love for Golden Era Hollywood. After an adjustment period of learning to understand the transatlantic accents, I was quickly drawn in by the elegance of Ava Gardner and the wittiness of Carole Lombard. It was not until many years later that I began to appreciate the eternally ubiquitous Marilyn Monroe. Nowadays, I always smile when I run across her image in public places. Marilyn has become the representative of classic Hollywood in the modern world.
Q: What is your favorite thing about your job?
PC: I have a passion for preventive medicine and the ability to address health at its root rather than just treating illness. I find it very meaningful to consider the upstream factors that influence public health, from lifestyle and environmental exposures to access to care and community resources. Understanding and addressing the social determinants of health—such as education, socioeconomic status, and housing—allows for a more comprehensive, patient-centered approach to medicine. By focusing on prevention and early intervention, we can reduce the burden of chronic disease, lower healthcare costs, and empower patients to take charge of their well-being. A holistic approach to medicine not only improves individual health but also strengthens entire communities, fostering healthier, more equitable systems of care. I believe that all specialties truly share the same goal, which is to create optimal long-term health outcomes for all.
Q: What is your favorite way to unwind after a long day? PC: The gym.
Q: How do you take your coffee? How many a day?
PC: Black, no cream no sugar. More cups than I can count!
Q: What’s the greatest lesson you’ve learned so far in your life?
PC: The greatest lesson I’ve learned so far is that life is lived forward and not backwards: embracing new experiences is key to growth. I’ve also realized that being bilingual is a superpower!
Q: What would be your last meal?
PC: McDonald’s French fries with McDonald’s Diet Coke (it just tastes better!)
Q: What is your most memorable memory at MOS?
PC: One of my most memorable moments at MOS is connecting with fellow osteopathic physicians, sharing experiences, and learning from leaders in the osteopathic field. The sense of camaraderie and passion for holistic, patient-centered care is both inspiring and enriching!
Q: What is your favorite part of MOS?
PC: My favorite part of MOS is the strong, supportive community it fosters among osteopathic physicians. Beyond advocacy, MOS provides valuable education, networking opportunities, and a space for collaboration, allowing DOs to connect, learn, and grow together. It reinforces our shared commitment to holistic, patient-centered care while ensuring that osteopathic medicine continues to thrive in Massachusetts’ evolving healthcare landscape. Being part of MOS means having a network of colleagues who support one another, advocate for our profession, and work collectively to advance the principles of osteopathic medicine for the benefit of our patients and communities.
Q: Why is it important to you to be part of your state osteopathic medical association?
PC: Massachusetts has long been a leader in medical innovation, home to some of the nation’s top healthcare institutions and groundbreaking advancements in patient care. Being part of the Massachusetts Osteopathic Society (MOS) is absolutely vital in ensuring that DOs have a strong presence in this dynamic medical landscape. MOS advocates for osteopathic physicians in policy decisions, works to expand recognition of osteopathic medicine, and strengthens our professional network. It fosters collaboration, provides essential continuing medical education, and supports the unique philosophy of holistic, patient-centered care. As Massachusetts continues to shape the future of healthcare, MOS ensures that DOs play an active role in that progress while preserving the core values of osteopathic medicine.
