Azeez Abiodun, MD is a Nigerian-American physician and philosopher currently living and practicing in Maryland.
Azeez was born in Lagos, Nigeria, son of Y. Akin Abiodun (retired Banker) and Olabimpe Abiodun (deceased). His parents viewed education as a key bridge to success and he was enrolled in school early in life and steadily progressed through Herbert Macaulay primary school, St. Finbarr’s college, Federal School of Arts and Science – all in Lagos. He then subsequently attended the University of Jos and and UNILORIN to study botany and medicine. He obtained his MBBS from University of Ilorin.
The death of his Mother early in life from incurable cancer inspired him to pursue the field of Medicine in an altruistic bid to aid and serve those afflicted with illness.
Upon completing Medical School and his internship, he got a job offer from the Namibian government and worked as a medical officer in Windhoek Central Hospital, Namibia and also briefly in South Africa.
His quest for knowledge and advancement made him relocate to the USA where he later did his Internal Medicine Residency Program at Prince George’s Hospital, Maryland and obtained his American Board of Internal Medicine Certification in 2005. He has since been practicing in Maryland, Washington, DC, and West Virginia.
Dr. Abiodun has participated in many voluntary non-profit medical missions to underserved rural areas in Nigeria over the course of his career. He steadfastly believes that giving back to the community is a citizenship duty.
How did you get started? What inspired you to become a physician?
After residency, I initially started on my own the old fashioned way of making what can be termed “physician house calls” to assisted living facilities to see patients.
How do you make money?
Through my trade – seeing patients.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
It actually took me about 6 months to get my first payment.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
Yes, at the onset while working for myself. My credentialing took a while to go through, so I did not receive payment for most of my service for at least 6 months and I almost quit at that early stage.
How did you get your first customer?
My colleague was my first customer.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
Doing a good job the first time is always the best marketing strategy.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
Sincerity and hard work are the hallmarks of my success. I would not be where I am today without this strong work ethic.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
I feel blessed every time people stop me on the street to let me know how well I treated them while they were under my care.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
It is tough to predict at this stage, but I believe if we continue to do things the right way we will be okay.
What business books have inspired you?
BUILT TO LAST by Jerry I. Porras and James C. Collins.
Who is one person you admire?
Nelson Mandela (Madiba). I really admire his selfless spirit. I met him in 1999 in South Africa.
Tell us about your home life.
I am happily married with my wife and have three lovely kids.
As far as hobbies go, I love spending time watching movies with my family.
I’m an ardent supporter of the Washington Redskins and am fervently waiting for the day the Redskins will be Super Bowl champions again. I also closely support the Arsenal Football club.