Eda Akyar, MD, MPH

Dr. Eda Akyar is a dedicated and insightful physician who believes deeply in the transformative power of active listening, individualized guidance, and collaborative care. She takes the time to understand each patient’s story, creating a trusting, supportive environment where personalized care can genuinely flourish. By listening attentively and partnering with her patients, she helps break down obstacles, set attainable goals, and foster meaningful, lasting improvements in well-being.

With special interests in sports medicine and women’s health, Dr. Akyar champions the philosophy of “movement as medicine,” recognizing its vital role in enhancing quality of life and longevity. She emphasizes whole-person care, integrating education, empathy, and interdisciplinary collaboration to support each patient’s unique journey toward optimal health.

Prior to joining SHIFT, Dr. Akyar completed her fellowship in Primary Care Sports Medicine at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, where she worked with the Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bulls, Joffrey Ballet, and DePaul University Athletics. She completed her Family Medicine Residency at New York Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia University. She earned her medical degree from Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, graduating with both Research and Global Health Honors. During medical school, she was recognized for her contributions to local and global communities with the Susan Hou Humanitarian Award. Dr. Akyar graduated from the Science and Humanities Scholars Program at Carnegie Mellon University with a BS in Biological Sciences and a minor in Chemistry. She later served as a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant in Indonesia, after which she earned a Master of Public Health in the Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases from Yale University.  

Dr. Akyar lives in Streeterville and enjoys being close to Lake Michigan. She loves exploring Chicago’s many neighborhoods and restaurants. In her free time, she stays active and enjoys traveling to new places.