NorthernVirginia: Get to Know Northern Virginia and DC’s Top Doctors

Here’s your chance to learn about the doctors that lead your surgeries and appointments.

These 11 Northern Virginia and DC doctors from our 2025 Top Doctors list share how they chose their specialties, what they love about their jobs, and how they practice their own healthy habits.

Dr. Andrew Joel
Urology
VHC Health
21 years in practice

Why did you choose your specialty?
I chose the fi eld of urology because it offers the perfect blend of surgical and clinical approaches to care. Urology also utilizes a diverse array of cutting-edge technology, such as robotics and lasers, which means that the fi eld is constantly evolving and therefore remains engaging.

Do you have a memorable patient story you could share?
The most memorable patient stories for me are the ones that highlight the pure kindness that people show to one another. Often this comes in the form of a letter thanking me for the care I provided to someone, but sometimes this can transcend into more. One such patient provided me with research about a shared interest in a historical event while another couple routinely provide vegetables from their garden and homemade raspberry jam. I am honored to take care of many people and part of the enjoyment and satisfaction I get from my work comes from getting to know people beyond their health challenges.

What’s one healthy habit you practice?

I eat fruit, vegetables, and whole grains every day.

Do you have advice for an aspiring doctor?

My advice to an aspiring doctor is to take a couple of years between college and medical school and use that time to learn as much as possible about what it means to be a doctor. Being a doctor is one of the most meaningful career paths one can embark on, but it is also a profound commitment. If clear in one’s convictions and goals, being a doctor will be extremely fulfi lling.