Dr. Reyzan Shali, MD

A Journey in Medicine, Resilience and Compassion

In the heart of Vista, California, Dr. Reyzan Shali stands as a pillar of hope and healing at Tri-City Primary Care. With nearly two decades of experience, this board-certified internal medicine physician has woven a tapestry of excellence, empathy, and resilience that inspires patients, colleagues, and her community alike. Since joining the clinic in 2022, Dr. Shali has worked alongside five skilled physicians, delivering comprehensive primary care—screening, preventative services, and personalized patient support—while collaborating with nearby radiology and laboratory services to ensure holistic care. Her contributions to medicine have earned her prestigious recognition, including a feature in Marquis Who’s Who and being named among the Top 50 Most Distinguished Professionals in Medicine by Preferred Health Magazine.

Dr. Shali’s journey to this point is nothing short of extraordinary. Born in Iraq, she earned her Doctor of Medicine in Baghdad before embarking on a bold new chapter in the United States. Arriving with just $100 in her pocket, she completed her residency in Michigan, defying the odds to build a thriving career. Her path wasn’t easy—marked by the challenges of immigration and the need to prove herself in a new country—but her resilience shone through. “I’ve always had to rise to the occasion,” she reflects, crediting her success to an unyielding spirit and the lessons of kindness instilled by her Kurdish parents. Their memory fuels her mission to serve as a guiding light for others, helping patients reclaim control over their lives.

Before joining Tri-City, Dr. Shali spent 17 years with Scripps Coastal Medical Group, part of the esteemed Scripps Health network, honing her expertise and deepening her commitment to patient care. Her scholarly contributions further cement her impact; her book, Teaming Up Against Cancer: Simple, Powerful Ways to Beat the Odds and Take Your Life Back, offers practical strategies for cancer recovery and prevention, blending medical insight with accessible dietary and lifestyle guidance. A member of the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians, Dr. Shali’s influence extends far beyond the clinic.

What sets Dr. Shali apart is her profound empathy, rooted in her unique background as a woman who has navigated doubt and adversity with grace. She draws inspiration from her parents’ values of sensitivity and compassion, qualities that resonate in her patient relationships. Many of her patients remain connected to her long after treatment, a testament to the trust and care she fosters. “My goal is to be a beacon for those seeking answers,” she says, “to help them find their way back to health and hope.”

Among her proudest achievements, Dr. Shali counts establishing a successful medical practice and building a loving family with her husband, Rastgo, and their two sons, Kawan and Kurdo. Her story is one of triumph over scarcity, a reminder that determination and heart can transform dreams into reality. Looking ahead, Dr. Shali is committed to continuing her work at Tri-City, inspiring not only her patients but also her family and community. Through her practice, her writing, and her life, she embodies the power of resilience, proving that even the longest journeys begin with a single, courageous step.

To learn more about Patient Preferred Physician Dr. Reyzan Shali, MD please visit www.TriCityPrimaryCare.com

Your journey from Iraq to becoming a respected physician in the U.S. is truly inspiring. Looking back, what was the most defining moment that shaped who you are today as a doctor and as a person?

Motherhood was one of the most defining moments of my life. It made me more selfless and deeply aware of the importance of caring for others. Becoming a mother changed my perspective on compassion, resilience,

and courage. These lessons carried over into my medical profession, shaping how I interact with patients and how I view my responsibility—not only as a physician, but as someone entrusted with the well-being of others.

You’ve often spoken about resilience and rising to challenges. How do those personal experiences influence the way you connect with and treat your patients? Being in the health field requires resilience every day. There are times when it is easy to give up, such as when facing disappointments, emotional exhaustion, or difficult patient journeys. However, I've found that resilience is not only important to me as a physician, but also a source of strength for my patients.

They are inspired to keep fighting when they see my unwavering dedication and strength. My own struggles allow me to empathize with patients where they are and to reassure them that they can overcome obstacles with persistence.

Your book, Teaming Up Against Cancer, provides practical strategies for recovery and prevention. What inspired you to write it, and what is the most important message you hope readers take away?

I wrote this book to honor my parents. Their love, sacrifices, and the values they taught me have been the center of everything I've accomplished. Writing it was a way to show how proud I am of them, and how much I want them to be proud of me. I want people to remember that no matter how difficult life gets, you should never give up on yourself. Even in the most challenging situations, resilience can help you continue. My parents taught me that lesson, and it is one I hope people remember when they face their own challenges.

Preventive care is a cornerstone of your work at Tri-City Primary Care.

What lifestyle changes or health habits do you encourage most often for patients seeking long-term wellness?

I encourage patients to start with the basics: regular exercise and a Mediterranean diet that is mostly plant-based and nutritious to the body. Even something as simple as walking 35–40 minutes a day can have a significant effect on long-term health. Small, consistent changes are the foundation of wellness, and I remind my patients that they don’t have to do everything perfectly, just commit to consistent, beneficial habits that their future selves will thank them for.

As a physician, author, and mother, how do you balance your demanding career with family life—and what lessons do you hope your children learn from your journey?

The truth is, balance is very difficult, and sometimes it feels like there is no true balance at all. There are sacrifices, long hours, and the constant pull between work and home. However, I want my kids to understand not just the difficulties but also the reason for everything: that I work hard for the community and for myself. My greatest goal is that they grow up to understand the value of working hard, being resilient, and using their gifts to do good in the world.

If they implement what they've learned, their efforts will be so rewarding.