Hi Elizabeth! Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I grew up in Boston with my twin brother, Andrew. We spent a lot of time rowing on the Charles River as children. Later, I met my husband while rowing in college. He was a Jersey boy from a very large family. My husband’s mother is one of thirteen children so after having children, we knew that we would ultimately move to New Jersey where our kids could grow up with lots of family around. Now I can’t imagine living anywhere else. Having the kids grow up with such a huge network of family is very special. It truly takes a village to raise kids today.
How old are your kids?
My three children are 11 (middle school student), 16 (high school sophomore) and 18 (just started college).
What is your favorite thing to do with them?
We love to be outdoors whether it’s biking on trails, exploring all that New York City has to offer or just going for a walk around the lake. Bergen County is perfect because you are approximately an hour from the city, mountains or beach. We can jump in the car and have a new adventure every weekend.
Are you involved in a business venture? Please share!
I work in the Hackensack office of Dr. Margaret Ravits. This is a bustling dermatology group practice catering to all age groups.
Why is this so important?
We strive to deliver excellent dermatology services with a gentle, family-centered approach. It’s essential that we deliver exceptional care in an environment that is not cold, sterile or overly consumed by technology.
What sets you apart?
Delivering good healthcare goes beyond asking, “what brought you in today?” We really strive to understand who you are as an individual. Providing good care means getting a clear understanding of the patient as an individual. Patients all have a story and it’s important to learn about each person’s story so that we can work together to create a treatment plan. There are three pillars to good healthcare. When working with families, we try to consider the biological, psychological, and social barriers which may create roadblocks to treatment.
We noticed that there was a real need in the community to open our office on Sundays. This one simple shift solves all kinds of logistical problems for patients. For our younger patients, this helps so that they don’t need to leave school early and for the parents, they don’t need to take a day off from work. It’s important that patients are given this option.
If you could give one tip to fellow moms, what would it be?
Protect yourself and your family from the sun’s UV rays. Check the UV index before going outside. Apply mineral-based sunscreen and dress the kids in sun-protective clothing like hats, rash guards, and sunglasses. I buy a lot of sun protection items when they are on sale in the fall.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I run most days of the week. Running gives me a deep peace and helps me relax. One of my greatest joys is running on trails near my house at the crack of dawn when the whole world is still sleeping. It’s magical!
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
It is the greatest compliment when a patient refers a family member to the practice. That is exactly the type of care I strive to provide. A hundred years ago, your medical provider was woven into the fabric of the community. Let’s bring that back where patients get individualized, family-centered care. If you need me on a Sunday or at night after work, I’m here for you and your family.
To learn more about Margaret Ravits, M.D. & Associates Dermatology visit their website or follow them on Instagram.