As the new Director of Women’s Health, what drew you to this leadership role, and how does it align with your mission in medicine?
Our department is at a pivotal moment. With so many internal and external changes on the horizon, there is a real opportunity to reimagine how we function, both in how we care for our patients and how we support our staff. While my focus has thus far been caring for patients as a physician, I’ve become increasingly drawn to the systems-level work: how we can create a clinical environment that truly reflects our values and supports health access beyond the exam room. This role felt like the right step toward shaping that future.
Women’s Health is preparing for an expansion and a move. From your perspective, what are the most urgent needs this expansion will address, and what impact will it have on the patients we serve?
One of the most immediate needs the upcoming move addresses is access, particularly with parking and space limitations that would have worsened with the I-35 expansion. But beyond solving logistical challenges, the move is a chance to design a space that aligns with our mission. From the décor that fosters a safe and calming environment to the layout, which emphasizes collaboration between team members and community for patients, every detail has been considered through the lens of creating an exceptional experience for our patients and staff.
As you look ahead, what is your vision for the future of Women’s Health? Are there new services, partnerships, or innovations you hope to bring to life?
As I continue to learn the nuances of our department and how we fit into the broader community, my priority is to identify what makes our department so special. I believe that grounding ourselves in our strengths – our people, our purpose, our values – will naturally lead us towards the right innovations, whether that is building and expanding service lines, developing strategic partnerships, or trying new approaches to care.
Working in women’s health, especially in underserved communities, can be emotionally intense. What keeps you grounded and inspired?
I am inspired daily by the resilience of our patients and the dedication of our staff. They remind me why this work matters, especially when things are hard. I am grateful to colleagues with whom I can laugh and share moments of levity. Outside of work, I am grounded by family and friends, mindful movement, puzzles, and learning new things: most recently, how to be a good plant parent.
If you could ask every supporter of People’s to champion one thing for women’s health this year, what would it be—and why?
Education. It may not be the flashiest issue, but it is foundational. When patients are informed and engaged, they are better equipped to make decisions about their health, prevent disease, manage chronic conditions, and avoid unnecessary ER visits. The challenge is that providers only have limited time during a visit, so we need creative and accessible ways to get information into the hands of our patients. Supporting education is a powerful investment in long-term health outcomes.
Can you share a patient story or experience that exemplifies why this expansion matters—not just in theory, but in real life?
One of my goals is for every patient to walk into our clinic and receive the same high-quality standard of care, regardless of where they are from and whether they have insurance. Our expansion reflects that vision. More than just a new space, it’s about building a system where access and dignity go hand in hand. For example, I am especially proud of our gynecologic surgery line, which has already allowed patients to get timely surgical care when they need it the most. That is the kind of tangible impact we’re building toward, and I look forward to expanding these kinds of services even further.