Dr. Joseph Skurka, DPM

A Michigan native, Dr. Joseph Skurka attended Michigan State University, where he received a Bachelor of Science in physiology and microbiology. He received a master's degree in education from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. In 2008, he returned to school and received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Barry University in Miami, Florida. Dr. Skurka is certified by the American Board of Preventive Medicine.  When it comes to patient care, Dr. Skurka said it should be centered around what is best for the patient, being a team player and never giving up on them. Dr. Skurka said getting patients on the right path is not always easy, but it motivates him to keep trying. Trying to change habits, like getting people to quit smoking or to eat more healthfully, often takes years, but persistence and patience are key, he said. "One day, that light bulb will go off in their head, and they'll want to live, so they start eating right and throw the cigarettes away," said Dr. Skurka. …"Most of my patients don't always like to hear what I have to say, and it can be a slow process. However, you have to convince them they're important and there is a reason for them to make changes in their lives. At the end of the day, they know I actually do care about them."