Assistant Clinical Professor at UCSF

Filipina-American, woman in medicine, sister, daughter, partner, friend

Since early in my childhood I was fortunate to have been inspired by strong and intelligent women in my family. My maternal grandmother was one of the first female doctors in her town in the Philippines in 1950. My mother also studied medicine and built a practice as a child psychiatrist after immigrating to the U.S. Having these role models at a young age was invaluable and helped me feel like anything was possible. Deciding to pursue a career in medicine truly felt like a calling and not only like something I could do, but was something I was meant to do. I realized it was the most exciting, challenging and rewarding privilege to be able to help those in need and give back to your community.

From the start, I was not the most outstanding applicant to medical school. I was fairly disappointed with my MCAT score and took several years after college to enhance my research experience. There were times when I often felt as though I did not belong or was not good enough. It wasn't until I got into my clinical years when I could work one-on-one with patients where I saw my strengths shine through. I was able to communicate with patients and put them at ease and realized what an impact this has in art of doctoring. This helped me realize that we all have our strengths and something to offer in the field of medicine.

I think equity and PM&R are inextricably linked to each other. As Physiatrists, we champion empathy and quality of care for underrepresented groups in medicine such as those with with disabilities. We understand how important it is to uplift and advocate for those that may not have a strong voice.

On a personal note, as a third generation Filipina physician, I had the unique circumstances of having role models that looked like me and the impact of that was profound. I want to do the same for the generations to follow and help further representation of female minorities in PM&R and in medicine.

I hope to continue to build my practice in academic medicine and increase the footprint of PM&R at UCSF. I thrive in the collaborative environment at this institution and look forward to continuing to work with students and learners and help pave the path for those interested in the amazing field of PM&R.

Instagram