Spencer Rushton, DO

Where are you from?

Murrieta, California

What are your personal interests/hobbies?

Running (ultramarathons), cycling, rock-climbing, Nordic skiing (obviously opportunities are sparse in this dessert paradise), baking (especially sourdough bread), music (I play guitar, piano, banjo, and sing), reading/audiobooks (I'm a sucker for a good sci-fi book or biography).

What are your professional interests?

Global Health, Sports Medicine, Medical Technology innovations.

Why did you choose UA EM?

From the time I began medical school, I have heard amazing things about the program, people, and community. After talking to the residents here, learning about the program and faculty during my interview, I knew my wife, my baby girl, and I would love it here. I'm also a fluent Spanish speaker and have done a lot of work with Latin communities in the US, as well as in South America. The commitment of the residency to focus on Spanish and serving the Hispanic and Native American communities had significant appeal to me.

Favorite activity in Tucson, or what attracted you to Tucson besides the residency program?

Being from Southern California, the dessert always has felt like home. You can't beat the outdoor activities in Tucson either. My wife and I are stoked to hit the trails here and soak up the sun. Oh, and you can't leave out the awesome food scene here, too. I'm excited to eat my weight in tacos.

What are your non-medical goals during residency?

Get on the Great British Baking Show, get a puppy, be the best husband and dad I can be, explore the desert and run some ultras with minimal cactus attacks, help my wife beat her Indiana Jones-like fear of snakes.