Education
COM: Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Tulsa, OK
Residency Program: Oklahoma State University Medical Center Family Medicine Residency, Tulsa, OK
Other Education: Master of Business Administration and bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of Oklahoma
Where do you currently practice?
I practice at Utica Park Clinic, a family medicine clinic serving a diverse population in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Our patient base includes individuals from all walks of life, with a mix of working-class families, elderly patients, and individuals managing chronic health conditions. We also have the privilege of serving members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Why did you choose family medicine?
I chose family medicine because of the opportunity it gives to build long-term relationships with patients and care for people across the entire lifespan. It also allows me to approach health in a holistic manner, focusing not just on physical well-being but also the emotional and social aspects of health. Family medicine offers the versatility I was seeking in my career.
What is a typical day like in your life as a new physician-in-practice?
A typical day starts early with reviewing charts and preparing for patient appointments. Throughout the day, I see a mix of acute care visits, chronic disease management, and preventive care, such as wellness exams and vaccinations. There’s always a balance between addressing urgent needs, like sick visits, and ongoing care coordination with specialists for more complex cases. I also work in medical informatics for our health system. In this role, I travel to various clinics around the area and help physicians use the EHR more efficiently, allowing them to leave work on time and enjoy their personal time.
Are you currently involved in ACOFP on a committee or in a volunteer role?
Yes, I am involved in the national ACOFP as a member of the Future Leaders, New Physicians, and the ACOFP Convention work group.
I have served on multiple committees, including Future Leaders, New Physicians, Practice Management, the ACOFP Convention work group, ACOFP website focus group, and the Resident Council, among other roles. Volunteering with ACOFP has allowed me to engage with physicians from across the country, gaining insights into different aspects of family medicine and its role in healthcare policy.
What have you volunteered for, on a state or national level, and how did it impact you?
I have volunteered for health outreach programs and free clinics in my community as well as various state organizations, such as the Osteopathic Founders' Foundation, Oklahoma Osteopathic Association, and the Oklahoma ACOFP. These experiences really reinforce the need for local leaders to stand up for those in their community as well as fight for all medical policies to empower our colleagues and patients.
What is your one word of advice to residents?
"Adapt." Family medicine, like all aspects of medicine, is constantly changing. Being adaptable, whether in managing new clinical guidelines or navigating patient complexities, is key to thriving in your practice while still being able to love what you do.
When was the first time you realized you wanted to be a physician?
I first realized I wanted to be a physician just after high school. I was involved in an accident that jeopardized my ability to walk again in the future. Thanks to my healthcare team, I was able to make a near-complete recovery. Seeing the positive impact physicians could have on people's lives, both in moments of crisis and in providing long-term care, solidified my desire to pursue this path.
