Meet Dr. Ty Higginbotham – Jackson native, Ole Miss Rebel at heart, and proud new dad, now back home at UMMC pursuing his passion for cardiology.
First, tell us about yourself.
I grew up in Jackson and attended Ole Miss and UMMC. I completed my internal medicine residency at MUSC in Charleston, SC, and am glad to be back home for fellowship! I have been married to Thames for five years, and we have an 18-month-old son, Robert.
When did you know you wanted to pursue cardiology?
I decided to pursue cardiology during my M3 year. My favorite block during physiology and anatomy in M1 year was cardiology, which initially sparked my interest. My clinical rotations in cardiology confirmed that it was a field I was passionate about. As I continued to learn about my goals and philosophy of medicine, I was drawn to the variety that cardiology provides. I love the opportunity to provide both acute lifesaving interventions and follow those patients in clinic to build lasting relationships.
What do you like most about UMMC?
There is a genuine sense of camaraderie at UMMC. I have enjoyed working with residents and other departments as a team to provide the best patient care possible. I have experienced such great hospitality from attendings, nurses, and classmates I knew from medical school, and I have felt warmly welcomed back into the UMMC community.
What advice would you give to the interns?
Put your money where your mouth is on your assessments and plans, and don’t be afraid to be wrong. If you knew everything about practicing medicine, you wouldn’t need a residency. Focus on taking excellent care of your patients and learning one new thing every day. In a year, you’ll be doing things effortlessly that seem impossible right now.
What could you give a 40-minute presentation on without preparation?
Ole Miss football or Lord of the Rings.
What is something you wish you knew more about?
Thames and I are trying to start gardening and grow our own vegetables. Any advice would be appreciated, as we managed to let a rosemary bush die.
What are some small things that make your day better?
Seeing a friend in the halls unexpectedly, helping a student understand a new concept, getting a funny picture of Robert from Thames, and Cups coffee.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.
I played Jean Valjean in my high school’s production of Les Misérables.
Progress Notes 