Michael Shea, MD

I first visited Maui in the 1980s, and in 2006 I purchased a retirement home on the island. When I later saw the community’s need for pulmonary and critical care physicians, I decided to work here before I retired. The aloha spirit, the importance of family and quality of life, and the advice of a good friend also helped persuade me to move here more than a decade ago.

About My Practice
My fascination with the inner workings of the human body and the desire to serve others led me to a career in medicine. Working in critical care as a medical resident taught me to be a compassionate person first and a physician second. During my residency I experienced the connection that’s possible between physician and patient during one of the most stressful events in a person’s life.

To stay current in my field, I read the journals Chest, the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, and the online resource UpToDate. Also, as a fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians I have access to the latest research findings. Other areas of interest and study include sepsis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and medical and nursing education.

I decided to join Pacific Permanente Group for a couple of reasons. First, the physicians here are highly skilled, they work as a team, and they seem to be truly happy in their work. Second, the group’s leadership and I share the same vision—to provide world-class care to the people of Maui and to engage in community service beyond care delivery. Here I’ve found a great balance among work, community, and family.

Forming relationships with patients is very rewarding to me. I’m interested in hearing about their lives, their families, and their interests. I want to help them to better understand their illnesses, provide them with the best treatment options, and support them in their choices.

How I Thrive
To recharge and unwind, I meditate, spend time with family and friends, play with my dogs, read science fiction, watch movies, and travel. For my physical health I hike, golf, and work out with a trainer.