Dr. Melissa Alvares

In a world where the fast-paced nature of modern medicine often leaves little room for empathy and connection, Dr. Melissa Alvares is a refreshing reminder of what it truly means to be a healer. A Family Medicine Specialty Trainee based in the UK, Dr. Alvares embodies a beautiful balance of personal warmth, professional diligence, and an unshakeable commitment to her patients’ well-being.

Rooted in Family, Driven by Purpose

“First and foremost,” she says, “I am a devoted daughter, sister, niece, granddaughter, and cousin to my cherished family.” For Dr. Melissa, her family is where everything began —and where it all finds meaning. This deeprooted foundation has shaped not only her values but also her approach to medicine and life.

Far from being defined solely by her career, she is also an enthusiastic traveler, an on meaningful connections with loved ones.

A Calling, Not Just a Career

Dr. Alvares excelled academically throughout school and higher secondary education, eventually facing the crossroads most science students encounter: engineering, medicine, or piloting. For her, the choice was crystal clear. “I immediately realised that pursuing medicine was my true calling.”

After earning her medical degree, she spent several years working in the field before pursuing her specialty. Choosing General Practice (GP) training was a conscious decision shaped by her desire to build long-term patient relationships and maintain a healthy work-life balance, both of which she finds immensely fulfilling.

Educational Journey and Career Path

Dr. Alvares graduated in 2017 from Avicenna Tajik State Medical University in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. She then returned to India, working in Emergency Medicine for two years, gaining vital experience in high-pressure environments.

Eventually, she relocated to the UK, where she continues to evolve professionally.

Her qualifications extend beyond her medical degree. She holds a Diploma in the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Health, and is trained in fitting contraceptive coils—further expanding the scope of care she offers her patients.

The journey wasn’t without its hurdles. “The most difficult aspect was preparing for the entrance exams,” she admits. Yet through resilience, focus, and timely breaks, she overcame each challenge, staying committed to her goals.

Patient-Centred Philosophy

Dr. Melissa’s approach to patient care is deeply empathetic and patient-centric. “I give my patients the opportunity to express their concerns and I listen attentively without interruption,” she explains. She emphasises that often, patients simply need someone to listen—a need frequently overlooked in today’s fast-paced hospital environments.

Transparency, honesty, and communication are central to her philosophy. She ensures that patients are not only informed about their conditions and treatment plans but are also active participants in their own healthcare decisions.

Embracing Technology for Better Care

Understanding the importance of keeping pace with innovation, Dr. Alvares actively incorporates new technologies into her practice. She is currently conducting an audit to evaluate how tech-savvy patients are— laying the groundwork for initiatives such as sending urine test kits to patients' homes. This will allow patients to carry out basic diagnostics independently, thereby reducing clinic congestion and optimising resources.

Rewarding Moments and Memorable stories

For Dr. Alvares, the greatest reward is seeing her patients smile after every consultation. “It is gratifying for me to perform my duties effectively and return home with the knowledge that I've positively impacted someone's life,” she reflects.

She recalls a poignant case that still touches her deeply. Just ten minutes before the end of her shift, she took on a complex patient. What began as a quick consultation extended until 7:00 p.m., as the patient’s condition worsened and required continued attention. Rather than handing the patient off to another doctor, she stayed. “That’s what my instincts told me to do,” she says. The patient recovered and expressed heartfelt gratitude, calling her a “queen.” That moment reaffirmed her purpose in medicine.

Facing the Emotional Demands of Medicine

As with any healthcare role, being a doctor involves navigating both triumphs and challenges. “Some days can prove to be particularly difficult,” she admits, especially after long, emotionally intense shifts. Yet she continues to show up with resilience, compassion, and a sense of duty.

“Every profession has its pros and cons, but as doctors, we often face life and death situations that require us to remain composed and grounded.”

Staying Ahead in a Changing Medical Landscape

Dr. Alvares notes how rapidly the medical field is evolving. Continuous learning, she says, is non-negotiable. From engaging in audits to adopting new knowledge from emerging research, she believes that staying updated is both a responsibility and a privilege. “There’s always something new to discover each day.”