Susan Di Giovanni, MD

Biography

Susan R. DiGiovanni: A Compassionate Healer and Dedicated Educator

Susan R. DiGiovanni, M.D., brings a profound dedication to patient care that extends beyond the confines of the hospital walls. Her role at VCU Health has allowed her to merge her passion for medicine with a sense of community and empathy, creating a healing environment that resonates with patients and colleagues alike.

At VCU Health, she brings a unique skill set cultivated through her extensive research in the field of kidney physiology at the National Institutes of Health. Her intricate knowledge of kidney function has been a cornerstone of her contributions.

That expertise allows her to tackle complex cases with a deep understanding of the physiological intricacies at play. She specializes in chronic kidney disease, hypertension, kidney stone prevention, genetic kidney disorders, and abnormalities in blood chemistries linked to kidney function. Her approach is rooted in patient-centered care that focuses on understanding each person’s unique puzzle of symptoms and crafting tailored treatment plans. And her genuine empathy and penchant for problem-solving create an environment where patients feel heard and valued.

Choosing nephrology as her specialty was a calling she just couldn't ignore. The intricacies of renal physiology captivated her during her second year of medical school, leaving an indelible mark.

“Ironically, when I was in training, my mother developed renal failure, and I had a personal reason for Nephrology as well,” she says. ”That connection has guided me in my patient interactions ever since.”

Success in nephrology, according to DiGiovanni, is akin to solving intricate puzzles. The kidneys interact with numerous factors, and understanding how they all fit together to impact a patient's health is both a challenge and a reward. This dynamic, ever-changing aspect of the field keeps her engaged and passionate about her work.

DiGiovanni's advice to patients is simple: take one step at a time. Whether facing a treatable condition or a daunting medical challenge, she encourages them not to be overwhelmed by the big picture. Instead, breaking down the journey into manageable steps can bring clarity and empower patients to navigate their healthcare path with confidence, she says.

While her love for patient care remains unwavering, her role as an educator inspires her each day.

“The true legacy here is to help train new generations of physicians to go out and care for our community and others across America and the world,” she says.
 

Advice to Patients:

“Take one step at a time. Do not get overwhelmed by looking at everything at once.”