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Daniel Slaton, DO

Dr. Daniel Slaton

Hometown: El Centro, CA

Medical School: A.T. Still School of Osteopathic Medicine - Arizona

Why did you choose Valley Children’s Pediatric Residency? 
Choosing Valley Children's Hospital for my pediatric residency made sense because it was a natural fit. Having dedicated my career to serving underserved communities and advocating for pediatric health equity and research, Valley Children's mission resonated with my own values. The program is committed to the pursuit of comprehensive and compassionate care. Coupled with its emphasis on education and community outreach, this program aligns perfectly with my aspirations as a pediatrician. Furthermore, there are many opportunities to work alongside faculty members who care about my education and future, as well as opportunities to participate in research and community outreach. Through my involvement, I hope to make a meaningful impact in my patients' lives. 

Hobbies: 
One of my greatest passions is weightlifting, which helps me stay physically fit and helps provide mental clarity and stress relief. I also enjoy playing the piano, and am working on mastering all levels of piano playing on my tablet. Karaoke nights with my friends and family provide moments of laughter and connection, giving me fun memories to look back on and something to look forward to on weeknights. Additionally, I cherish the time spent with my rescue cat, which includes going for walks together or playing hide and seek at home. These moments help remind me that the medical field is a place where I can be myself and grow as a person.

Advocacy and Research Interests and Accomplishments: 
Throughout my academic and professional career, I have nurtured a deep curiosity for the unknown and ensuring equity in healthcare. As a volunteer coordinator at Hospice of Imperial Valley, I managed volunteers and organized schedules, optimizing patient care and leading community education and outreach efforts. During medical school, I led and collaborated on a variety of research projects. One of the most notable projects involved the investigation of Zellweger’s syndrome in the Mixtec population, which I hope will lead to informed decision-making for parents and further interventions for future patients. I look forward to continuing to participate in further research and outreach opportunities and making a comprehensive difference in patients' lives.

Care Philosophy:
I believe in a patient-centered approach that is founded by empathy, compassion, and cultural humility. Building collaborative relationships with patients and their families is my priority, and recognizing their unique backgrounds, values, and preferences is important and helps me provide better care. By actively listening and engaging in shared decision-making, I hope to empower families to actively participate in their child's health and well-being. Addressing social determinants of health and advocating for health equity will help me ensure that every child receives the highest standard of care regardless of their socioeconomic status or cultural background. Through curiosity and continuous learning, I am dedicated to furthering patient care and expanding the range of knowledge that can be applied to my patients.