Lewis E. Hatten, MD, FACS, RPVI, Retires
Hattiesburg Clinic would like to offer gratitude and best wishes to Lewis E. “Yehudi” Hatten, MD, FACS, RPVI, who has retired from Hattiesburg Clinic Vascular Specialists after 20 years of service.
Dr. Hatten’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable career, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, leadership and innovation. He was instrumental in the growth and success of Vascular Specialists, where he cared for patients with conditions affecting the arteries, veins and lymphatic systems that primarily involve circulation from the heart to the rest of the body. He was also one of the founding members of the Wound Care Center at Forrest General Hospital and of Hattiesburg Clinic’s Endovascular Center, which is the first vascular physician-led outpatient procedure center of its type in the area.
Humayun Bakhtawar, MD, FACS, RPVI, a longtime colleague of Hatten’s, reflected on their time working together. “Dr. Hatten is one of the most genuine people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. He embodies the true spirit of a physician – deeply passionate about his work and always striving for excellence, yet remarkably humble and kind,” Dr. Bakhtawar said. “As a mentor, he has been a guiding force, offering invaluable support, wisdom and encouragement. His door has always been open for thoughtful discussions, making him approachable and generous with his time, no matter how busy he is.”
Hatten’s contributions have provided critical, specialized care to countless patients, improving the lives of many throughout the Pine Belt. Over the years, Hatten’s unwavering dedication to his work, his patients and his colleagues has defined his career, making him a beloved figure in the medical community.
As his nurse of 15 years, Katie Rivers, RN, shared, “Every day was an adventure with Dr. Hatten! It was an instant friendship. Relationships are everything to him. From his fellow physicians, nurses, patients, even the late-night maintenance crew – everyone was treated the same. The 15 years I spent with him as his nurse grew me not only as a nurse, but as a compassionate human in general. I have never known someone so selfless. What a remarkable role model he has been to me and so many others. He truly serves all people placed in his path.”
Bakhtawar echoed this sentiment when he spoke about his relationship with Hatten outside of the professional realm. “Dr. Hatten has been a reliable and caring friend, with a great sense of humor that lights up any room. His warmth, integrity and kindness have left a mark on everyone fortunate enough to work with him,” Bakhtawar said. “His compassion, leadership and unwavering integrity make him not only a role model but also someone people genuinely enjoy being around. Though we will deeply miss his daily presence, his influence and friendship will be felt for years to come.”
After making the decision to retire, one he did not come to lightly, Hatten expressed his gratitude to his colleagues and his patients. “My time at Hattiesburg Clinic has been completely fulfilling and enjoyable. People have always been kind and willing to help in every instance in my experience. The atmosphere of ‘patient care’ exists here, and I am happy to have had the opportunity to be a part of it. Therefore, I am taking this opportunity to say thank you to everyone at Hattiesburg Clinic for making my time here all, and even more, than I could have ever dreamed. I was not able to even dream this good! Thank you now and for always.”
Please join us in recognizing Hatten for his many years of service at Hattiesburg Clinic and wishing him well in his retirement. In the words of Bakhtawar, “Thank you, Dr. Hatten, for everything you’ve done. You’ve made a difference in more ways than you know.”
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