Dr. Lawrence Neshiwat, right with Dr. Patrick Neshiwat
Caring for patients at St. John’s Riverside Hospital is a family tradition for Dr. Lawrence Neshiwat and Dr. Patrick Neshiwat, a father-son team.
Dr. Lawrence Neshiwat, an endocrinologist and internal medicine specialist, has been with St. John’s Riverside Hospital serving Yonkers since 1993, while his son Patrick has spent much of his life there. Patrick was born at St. John’s Riverside and began shadowing the hospital’s doctors in grade school. After attending Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, he returned to Westchester to complete his internal medicine residency at St. John’s.
Dr. Patrick Neshiwat’s return to the hospital coincided with the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, a grueling time for healthcare workers nationwide. Fortunately, St. John’s Riverside remained dedicated to providing the best patient care while helping train the next generation of healthcare workers.
“I began my residency in 2020, right in the middle of it,” says Dr. Patrick Neshiwat. “That was a big shock, but the staff here supported us. They made sure we learned while also treating patients. They prioritized both our education and our well-being. That experience prepared me for the worst-case scenarios. Even after the pandemic, in 2021, 2022, and 2023, I felt ready for anything. I learned so much from that time, and I’m grateful for the support I had at St. John’s.”
Today, chronic illnesses like diabetes and heart disease remain some of the most common health challenges faced by New York residents. As an endocrinologist, Dr. Lawrence Neshiwat often treats these and other conditions.
“Endocrinology covers many common health problems,” Dr. Neshiwat says. “I see patients with diabetes, heart disease, thyroid issues, and osteoporosis. These conditions are the leading causes of hospital visits in many communities.
“Diabetes is a major challenge,” he adds. “But new medications have transformed treatment. Many patients come to me after trying different options with their primary doctors. I can make a real difference in their care with the right tools and St. John’s support.”
Dr. Lawrence Neshiwat takes a patient-centered approach to treating these conditions, getting to know new patients and their health goals right away. “First, I ask what you need from me,” he says. “What are you looking to improve? What condition do you want help with? From there, we find a path forward. Whether it’s blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or thyroid issues, I focus on what is needed. If a specialist is required, I refer to someone nearby, so patients do not have to travel far.”
Dr. Patrick Neshiwat admires his father’s years of experience and medical knowledge and is happy to have the opportunity to work with him. “Having someone I trust, who holds me accountable, is valuable,” he says. “My dad raised me with strong morals, and now I learn from him daily. He’s great at endocrinology! We share ideas and learn from each other. He has experience with long-term patient care, and I bring in knowledge of preventative medicine. Working together makes us both stronger, and I’m excited to continue serving this community with him.”
“It’s amazing to see the next generation continue our work,” adds Dr. Lawrence Neshiwat. “Having a father and son team gives patients trust and continuity. Our focus remains the same: putting patients first and providing the best care. His bedside manner is excellent, and I’m very proud of him. I know he’ll do great.”
Having worked at St. John’s Riverside for over 31 years, Dr. Lawrence Neshiwat has no immediate plans to retire. But when the time comes, he knows the hospital’s patients will be in good hands.
“With the next generation, like my son, I know St. John’s will continue providing excellent care.”
Dr. Patrick Neshiwat agrees. “It feels like he’s passing the baton to me, but we’re also running the same race together. His dedication to St. John’s inspires me to continue serving the community and assuring patients feel confident in their care for generations to come.”
To learn more, visit: St. John’s Medical Group – 1019 Yonkers Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10704 or call 914-237-1900.
