When Maria E. Tellez, MD, was attending medical school at the University of Monterrey (Nuevo Leon, Mexico), she knew she would specialize in pediatrics.
“I always enjoyed the childhood development and intervention program courses,” Tellez said. “The first five years of a child’s life are extremely important to brain development and future health, and I help them get the best start possible.”
“I also love dealing with the kids,” Tellez added. “They’re so fun to work with!”
Tellez has been treating young patients since 1996, when she began her residency at Driscoll Children’s Hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas. Her career path led her to Eagle Pass, Texas; San Antonio, Texas; and, finally, Houston.
After working at a private practice for several years, Tellez joined UT Physicians Multispecialty – International District on March 1 as a staff physician.
“I decided to be part of UT Physicians because of the population we serve here at International District. It’s like Houston, the most varied city in the United States,” Tellez said. “It’s a pleasure to interact with children and parents from different backgrounds and cultures and socio-economic levels. It’s very nice, an ideal place to work.”
The pediatrician also appreciates the multispecialty structure of the clinic.
“We have many health care specialists and support professionals, like social workers and psychologists, who can also help our patients in one place,” Tellez said. “It allows us to provide our patients with comprehensive care.”
For Tellez, it is important to form trust with her patients and parents.
“Medicine is not just about treatment but trust,” Tellez said. “Parents aren’t going to give their kids their medication or follow other advice if they don’t trust you.”
The greatest job perk of all is the relationships that develop.
“The best part is the person-to-person interaction. I couldn’t just be in front of a computer all day,” Tellez said. “I like the interpersonal relationships you develop with patients and their parents. It’s wonderful when parents trust me enough to treat their children, and it’s rewarding when they continue to remain in touch with me.”
In her free time, the mother of three teenagers stays busy as she pursues a master’s degree in public health administration. For fun, Tellez cooks and “experiments” in the kitchen. She also reads books, watches movies, and goes to parks with her family.
To schedule an appointment with Tellez, call UT Physicians Multispecialty – International District at 713-486-5900 or go to UTPhysicians.com/InternationalDistrict.
