Growing up in Northborough, Massachusetts, Dr. Suhayla Islam knew from an early age that she wanted to have a career that serves others. “I really value connection and community,” she explains. “And I really enjoy learning, especially about ways to help people improve their health.”

In her practice at Reliant, Dr. Islam understands that having the privilege to treat patients is a great responsibility. “I find it so empowering to address all the different concerns patients bring with them to the clinic,” she explains. “I like managing various aspects of a family’s health, whether they are dealing with cardiovascular disease, children’s health, or metabolic health including diabetes. I also like to help patients with their concerns about food insecurity and other socioeconomic factors that can directly affect their overall health.”

Dr. Islam is very experienced in women’s health as well as preventative health, in addition to osteopathic manipulative therapy from her training as a doctor of osteopathic medicine. She likes to encourage patients to make lifestyle changes so that they can get healthier. “For instance, if someone doesn’t have much time to exercise I instruct them to park at a distance away from where they work or shop and get some steps,” she explains. “If someone has a condition where they can’t walk easily, I encourage them to use some weights and exercise in the chair they are sitting in. I enjoy thinking creatively and finding ways for patients to get some benefit despite their limitations.”

In her practice, Dr. Islam always likes to leave patients at least a bit better off than when they came in. “When I see that spark in a patient’s eye, when I see they are leaving with some information and feedback that’s going to help them take a step forward, I know I have accomplished my goal.”

In her spare time Dr. Islam enjoys spending time with her family, cooking and traveling to new places, especially different cities.