Melanie Sulistio, M.D.

Early Influences

Dr. Sulistio was educated at UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, where she completed a residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in cardiology. She credits her career in medicine to the early support she received from her family. “My father and mother were my biggest inspirations for pursuing medicine. My father taught me what an incredible privilege it is to care for others and how one should never take this privilege for granted,” she said.

"My mother is a woman who can do anything she puts her mind to and never considers anything impossible. I definitely get my courage and determination from her.”

Taking Risks

Looking into her own field of medicine, Dr. Sulistio acknowledges that “some might consider going into a largely male-dominated specialty as taking a risk. Women make up approximately one-third of cardiology trainees and less than 30% of cardiologists in practice.” Dr. Sulistio refused to let this deter her. “I took this as a challenge to prove to myself and to others that not only could I do it, but that other women could do it as well,” she said. “There were definitely challenges, but I don't regret my choice of specialty. I'm very proud to be a practicing cardiologist.”

Clinical Experience

“As an adult cardiologist, I love taking care of patients, both in the clinic and in the hospitals. Getting to know my patients and what is feasible for them gives me great joy.”

Her efforts as a leading cardiologist focus on cardiac imaging. Specifically, she is an expert in electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram interpretation.

As a researcher, Dr. Sulistio investigates gender differences in medical education. She was honored as a part of UT Southwestern’s Women in Medicine Month. This campaign honors the female physicians whose contributions establish UT Southwestern as a leading hospital.

Educating the Next Generation

Dr. Sulistio has a passion for clinical education. She goes above and beyond her role as Associate Professor, remaining innately involved in many aspects of UT Southwestern Medical School, where she serves as Associate Dean for Student Affairs. “I work with medical students to help them become the best physicians they can be.” Additionally, Dr. Sulistio is passionate about "quality improvement that encourages meaningful goals of care discussions with our heart failure patients who have internal defibrillators.”