At Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise, Idaho, Dr. Sheev Dattani combines surgical precision with a genuine passion for mentorship. A board-certified minimally invasive and robotic colorectal surgeon, he leads one of the region’s highest-volume robotic surgery programs and serves as site director for surgical education.
For Dr. Dattani, mentoring WWAMI medical students isn’t just a professional role — it’s personal.
“Medical students bring an energy that’s contagious,” he said. “They’re eager, curious, and push me to stay sharp. What’s most rewarding is watching them grow — from tentative observers to confident contributors. It’s a full-circle reminder of my own early days.”
His teaching philosophy extends beyond students. As one of the highest-volume robotic colorectal surgeons in the country, Dr. Dattani regularly hosts visiting surgeons from across the U.S. and Canada who come to observe his operations and refine their own techniques.
“Robotic surgery is constantly evolving,” he explained. “Sharing what we’ve learned here, both with medical students and with practicing surgeons, helps advance care for patients everywhere.” 
Inside the operating room, Dr. Dattani emphasizes hands-on learning and critical thinking.
“Real learning happens in real time,” he said. “I give students autonomy where I can, but I’m always close by, guiding, questioning, and helping them connect technical skill with clinical judgment.”
He still recalls one of his most memorable moments — watching a quiet student who once doubted their surgical ability gain confidence and skill through steady mentorship.
“Those transformations,” he said, “are why I teach.”
Teaching keeps him grounded and connected to the roots of medicine.
“I was once a student myself, and I know how much of a difference the right mentorship makes. I make sure students feel useful every single day. That sense of purpose is what fuels confidence and growth.”
Dr. Dattani also finds deep meaning in serving the Idaho community where his wife grew up and where they’re now raising their family.
“I grew up in Saskatchewan, so it felt natural to work in a community with similar values and pace of life. Idaho has long been medically underserved, and building high-quality surgical care here isn’t just rewarding — it feels like a responsibility and a privilege.”
Through his leadership and mentorship, Dr. Dattani continues to strengthen the future of surgery in the Gem State, shaping not only medical students, but also surgeons from across North America, who carry forward his commitment to skill, compassion, and innovation.