Michael A. Carlisle, MD

I specialize in pediatric cardiology and critical care. Our practice primarily focuses on various congenital heart diseases. We recognize that any cardiac diagnosis can have a marked impact on the patient and their family. We want you to know that when you come into our cardiac unit, you’ll be treated as if you were a member of our family.

Initially, I became interested in pediatrics while working in a parent’s day-out program for patients with an autism spectrum disorder. Sitting down with families and using a team-based approach to care was imperative. As I continued my training in pediatrics, I fell in love with cardiology and recognized that this was a team sport too. I loved talking with families, setting expectations, and walking them through complex diagnoses. I realized that as a physician, it was critical to directly involve the family in decision-making and ongoing care. The dedication to family-focused treatment was one reason I was drawn to Cincinnati Children's.

Good care is always about doing the right thing and putting the child first. I think that good care requires a particular focus on patience, kindness and safety. Without these things, I feel we are doing a disservice to our patients.

My current research focuses on standardized clinical care practice and structured risk mitigation. Previously, I worked with United Airlines to help us develop tools that would better promote a culture of safety in the hospital setting. These tools include checklists, risk avoidance tools, educational models and simulations.

When I’m not working, I am an avid runner and cyclist. I’ve competed in adventure races around Cincinnati since 2014.