The old adage, ‘it runs in the family,’ certainly holds true for the Yost family. Morgan Yost, DO, the youngest of seven children, is the fourth physician in his immediate family. The first was his father Christian Yost, DO who practiced pediatric medicine in Pocatello for 35 years. Morgan is proud to continue a legacy of care that spans over four decades.
After graduating high school, Morgan, who was interested in a career in general surgery, took an opportunity to shadow a surgeon. “Shadowing is an important part of learning what being a doctor is like,” Dr. Yost said. “Essentially you are there to watch and experience the nature of a practicing physician’s profession. I loved the idea that with surgical intervention you can make a significant difference in the lives of patients. I went to medical school with the intention of becoming a surgeon.”
Coming from a family of physicians, Dr. Morgan Yost received much guidance, insight and advice along the way. As he began his third year in medical school another physician, who was a close family friend, suggested that he consider otolaryngology, ophthalmology or radiology as future career opportunities. It was suggested that these specialties would accommodate a balanced lifestyle; something not often afforded to general surgeons. “It was indicated that within these specialties I would be able to tailor my practice and have both a solid career and a more manageable lifestyle,” Yost said.
Additionally, Yost’s eldest brother, Con Yost, MD, neonatologist, instructed him to pick a specialty in which he had similar interests, goals and personality to others in that field. While there are exceptions and diverse personalities within each field, for whatever reason, otolaryngology has traditionally attracted ‘nice’ people. Even within the medical literature, the otolaryngologist has been referred to as the ‘mild mannered’ physician. In truth, like attracts like. Otolaryngology seems to attract nice people who enjoy working hard and also enjoy surgery. Dr. Yost discovered that the practice of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery is as varied as the range of patients that present to his clinic. The practice requires both medical and surgical skills in the treatment of patients and otolaryngologists are able to maintain a hands on approach to the care of their patients. With this advice, Yost graduated from ATSU Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kirksville, MO and completed his residency training in otolaryngology at Northeast Regional Medical Center, Kirksville, MO.
Upon graduating residency, there was one more major decision for which Dr. Yost sought advice. Where to practice? Gentry Yost, MD, third son and pediatrician at the Pocatello Children and Adolescent Clinic was instrumental in guiding his younger brother. “Gentry really was the driving force; he convinced me to come back home to practice medicine,” Dr. Yost said. “I have been told by many people that my mom, a hospice nurse, is also quite thrilled.” Dr. Yost specializes in the medical and surgical management and treatment of diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat (ENT), and related structures of the head and neck in both pediatric and adult patients.
To schedule a consult, please contact his office, Portneuf Ear Nose and Throat Clinic 208-239-1960. He is presently taking new patients.