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Meet Jonathan Praeger, MD

Originally published February 10, 2025

Last updated February 10, 2025

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Jonathan Praeger, MD

Dr. Praeger is a cardiothoracic surgeon with Keck Medicine of USC who specializes in aortic issues and minimally invasive solutions for heart arrhythmias and atrial fibrillation.

Here’s what you won’t find on his resume.

He has his ideal job.

“Growing up, I always knew I wanted to become a cardiac surgeon.”

His parents were his biggest role models.

“My father was a cardiac surgeon. He was extremely proud of helping people, and his passion inspired me to follow in his footsteps.

My mother is an artist and always encouraged me to be creative. I find that cardiac surgery allows me to be creative while also helping people.”

Family time is often spent at the beach.

“When I’m not working, I’m usually outdoors with my family. We enjoy spending time at the beach, surfing and going on hikes.”

He dreams of traveling beyond this world.

“I love traveling home to New York City and to Budapest, Hungary. But the top travel destination on my bucket list is beyond Earth. I’d love to go to space.”

Favorite movie?

“I enjoy the 1960 science fiction movie ‘The Time Machine.’”

He always keeps an open mind.

“The best advice I ever received was to never judge a book by its cover and to always treat others with respect.”

Seeing people recover is rewarding.

“I have the opportunity to operate on sick patients and help them get back to living their lives. Seeing them improve is the most satisfying part of my job.”

He empathizes with his patients.

“I imagine myself in the patient’s situation, and then I strive to be the doctor I would want taking care of me. My bedside manner is calm and respectful.”

He chose academic medicine because he enjoys a challenge.

“I chose to practice at an academic medical center because it allows me to treat a diverse patient population with complex pathologies. I also enjoy helping to train the next generation of physicians.”

What sets Keck Medicine apart?

“Keck Medicine is an extremely collegial institution. This makes for a pleasant work environment and fosters collaboration that enables us to take care of patients in the best way possible.”

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