Physician Spotlight: Dr. W. Taylor Allen

A keen interest in biology, a temperament for the unexpected and a passion for healing drew Dr. W. Taylor Allen to emergency medicine.  

A sense of humor, a commitment to team-based decision-making and his excellence in practicing emergency medicine make Dr. Allen North Oaks’ first Physician Spotlight of 2024.  

He has worked in the North Oaks Medical Center Emergency Department (ED) since June 2022 and is board certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine. Dr. Allen shared that working with family members to create ideal plans of care is paramount to better outcomes. 

“I’m a big fan of the shared decision-making model,” he explained. “I see myself as an educator for patients more than anything else. I attempt to give them my knowledge, clarify treatment options and then form a plan of care together that is appropriate for them.” 

Dr. Allen thrives in the fast pace of emergency medicine and favors the unpredictability of medical conditions he sees day-to-day.  

“I like the wide range of pathology I see,” he emphasized. “I like direct patient interaction and the entertaining environment with great colleagues.” 

The personality also suits his home life, where life also moves fast. 

After marrying a woman with the same name (Taylor), the Meridian, Mississippi native recently became a father as his wife gave birth in January to their son named Harris. The newborn joined a family that also includes a 7-month-old bullmastiff puppy named George who weighs 110 pounds and “has an appetite for remote controls and socks.” 

At work, the hook is always science. In his youth, Dr. Allen spent a good amount of time with his grandfather, who ran a pharmacy. He saw biology and chemistry in action, and was drawn to the medical field. 

As an emergency room physician, Dr. Allen employs the knowledge into a tangible result. 

“I enjoy the fact I’m able to improve the way others feel,” he commented. 

Sometimes he isn’t able to instantly improve physical pain. That’s where his sense of humor disarms patients and creates a unique bond. 

Ask him about golfing: 

“I am terrible.” 

What’s a hobby of yours? 

“Vacationing.” 

Favorite Movie? 

“Lord of the Rings Trilogy versus Bad Santa” (It’s a toss-up.) 

Favorite Foods? 

Let’s just say he can recommend healthy cuisine even if it is not his top choice. 

Dr. Allen’s self-described “goofy” personality is in direct opposition to the excellence he delivers day in and out in the ED. He is laser focused during the critical minutes of emergency care and works quickly to deliver advanced treatments. His commitment to the patient and the emergency department team is evident. 

“I like to treat others the way I would like to be treated,” Dr. Allen remarked. 

Some Dr. Allen “favorites”: 

Hobbies Outside of Vacationing: Music, fishing and golf 

Sports Team: Ole Miss Rebels 

Vacation Spot: Florida panhandle, golf courses and ski snowing