New faculty Q&A with Dustin Hillerson, MD

Dustin Hillerson, MDDustin Hillerson, MD

Clinical Assistant Professor
Cardiovascular Medicine

What is your primary professional focus in any or all of our mission areas (clinical, research, and/or medical education)?
My clinical interests in cardiology are cardiac critical care and recovery from critical illness. I am hoping to work towards building a network within critical care cardiology and ICU recovery clinics.

What drew you to UW-Madison and the Department of Medicine?
I was looking for an academic position that allowed me to utilize my training in critical care. When I heard about UW from a mentor, I was thrilled to hear what UW envisioned for the redesign of the CCU while seeking dual-trained cardiac intensivists. It is an honor to be invited to be a part of this growing team.

What are you most excited about during your first year with the department in this role?
Being a part of building a state-of-the-art CCU has been my dream since early in fellowship! I am excited to be on this team and focus on the difficult transition back to a normal life that survivors of critical illness face.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
Growing up in New Mexico, I developed a love for the outdoors. I miss my mountains dearly, but I’m excited to explore the lakes and woods of Wisconsin. I love reading fiction, non-fiction, comic books, and reading to my kids.

Favorite piece of advice from a mentor or inspiring figure in your life?
I did well on a test one time and the professor quoted Han Solo and said, “great kid, don’t get cocky.” I didn’t get it until I got a B on the midterm.