Meet James Buxbaum, MD

Dr. Buxbaum is a gastroenterologist and a national leader in the fields of advanced endoscopy and pancreatology.

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

Like father, like son

“Growing up, while I was interested in becoming a historian or a political scientist, I always admired my father’s work. He was a gastroenterologist in Whittier, California, and my most influential role model.

“He took remarkable care of his patients, and they deeply appreciated his dedicated care. In the end, watching his example inspired me to pursue the same specialty.”

He enjoys reading and hiking.

“When I’m not at work, I’m often hiking in the San Gabriel mountains. I also love studying history.”

He could have been a meteorologist.

“People may be surprised to learn that I made a hobby out of predicting the weather. The now-retired weather forecaster Fritz Coleman featured me on his weather forecast on NBC Channel 4 in the early 1990s.

“I also considered a career in politics and served as a White House intern.”

He views complex cases like a puzzle.

“The most rewarding part of my job is the opportunity to talk to patients about their lives and experiences. I often see patients with puzzling symptoms, and I enjoy putting it all together to make an accurate diagnosis.”

His patients motivate him. 

“My patients inspire me to be the best physician every day. I hope to make a significant difference for every patient and help improve their outcomes.”

His advice for medical students:

“It is greatly rewarding to work with students and encourage their enthusiasm for medicine. For those interested in pursuing gastroenterology, I tell them that this specialty offers an exciting variety. In any given day, they may manage infectious diseases, neoplasms and functional symptoms.”

Advanced imaging and noninvasive techniques changed his field.

“The advancements in my field that have been the most impactful include the ability to very closely examine the pancreas, and noninvasive techniques that allow us to treat diseases in an incredibly meaningful way. Improved therapies for hepatitis B and C have also been instrumental.”

He hopes to see breakthroughs in pancreatic cancer treatments.

“Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most challenging to treat. In my lifetime, I hope to see new strategies that significantly improve outcomes for patients with pancreatic cancer.”

His research informs his care.

“I chose to practice at an academic medical center because I enjoy integrating research and teaching into my clinical practice. With research, my goal is to fully understand and learn more about the parts of medicine that are still unclear and challenging.”

He’s proud to work with enthusiastic colleagues.

“Keck Medicine is a special place. We provide patients with a warm, supportive environment, combined with access to the most innovative treatments available. I’m also proud to work with such exceptional colleagues who show a tremendous enthusiasm for providing compassionate, complex care.”

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