Allison E. Shen, MD

As a palliative medicine physician at NYU Langone Hospital—Brooklyn, I provide care for people living with serious illnesses. I focus on understanding patients as individuals with a unique set of experiences, values, and goals. My work is grounded in my conviction that patients deserve to be heard and respected throughout their care journey.

My path to medicine began with my love of stories. The most meaningful moments of my medical training were those in which I witnessed patients telling their own stories, instead of being defined by their diagnoses. Maintaining this connection to the human experience is at the heart of my work in palliative care.

I specialize in managing patients with burdensome symptoms and addressing the social, emotional, and existential aspects of serious illness. I also help patients navigate complex medical communication and decision-making by collaborating with their loved ones and their medical teams. My role is to ensure that patients’ voices are recognized and their goals are honored.

I am part of an interdisciplinary team of professionals at NYU Langone who share a commitment to treating individuals in all their complexity. Together, we strive to support our patients during some of life's most challenging moments. It’s a privilege to do this work of connecting with people on a deeply human level, and I am grateful for all that our patients choose to share with us.