Why is it important to have strong female representation in healthcare?
Having strong female representation in healthcare is important for so many reasons. Firstly, it just makes sense. Half of the population is female, so having women in the field ensures that their perspectives, experiences, and health concerns are adequately represented.
The advent of women has in fact changed the face of medicine. A male dominated field only a few decades ago, women now make up more than half of medical schools across the country. This shift has led to a more patient-centered approach to care, with better communication, empathy, and advocacy for issues that may have been overlooked in the past, like maternal health, mental health, and gender-specific research. In addition, the culture of medicine has changed drastically. There once was a time when physicians would do call for 72 hours straight in the hospital. With increasing female presence, there is an emphasis on work life balance and promoting conversations around physician wellness and mental health. Beyond that, representation is huge for inspiring future generations. When young girls and women see female doctors, surgeons, hospital leaders, they also see possibilities for themselves.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in your field, and how have you overcome them?
As a physician and leader, I juggle multiple roles that often compete for my time. In addition to my work as a physician, I’m also a wife, a mother, and a daughter, and with a very busy family life, there is always something to be done. As a woman of colour, I’ve found that societal and cultural pressures, along with gender expectations, can feel even more amplified. From early schooling to my current role in medical leadership, I’ve often observed that when women succeed, it’s a shared victory, but when they fail, the burden tends to fall on them alone. This has made it difficult for me to share the workload, and at times, I’ve felt the need to do it all myself. While I may never completely overcome these challenges, I’ve come to understand my priorities and set clear boundaries. I’ve learned to be more forgiving with myself, realizing that I don’t have to carry everything on my own and that I can rely on the support of those around me. I’m fortunate to have a wonderful, supportive family and network that is always there to help. I’ve also discovered the importance of "soul maintenance” incorporating small, joyful acts into my daily routine, such as regular exercise, listening to music, engaging in conversations with friends and family, spending time outdoors, and making room for family game nights and date nights. Above all, I’ve learned the incredible value of gratitude, which has helped me maintain perspective and resilience in the face of challenges.
Who is a woman that has inspired you in your life or career?
While I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by many exceptional women throughout my life and career, the strongest influence has undoubtedly been my mother. As an immigrant South Asian woman with limited support, she faced immense discrimination, conflict, and adversity. Despite these challenges, gratitude, positivity, and spirituality have always been central to her way of life, and she has never hesitated to speak her mind.
From her, I learned the importance of "never settling for the backup plan" and how to approach difficult problems: by taking a step back, viewing the bigger picture, and seeking solutions that you might not have initially seen.
What is one lesson you’ve learned as a woman in your profession?
One important lesson I’ve learned as a woman in my profession is that I am a work in progress, and every interaction offers an opportunity for personal growth. I’ve also learned that it’s impossible to please everyone, and that finding contentment in my own best efforts, regardless of others’ opinions is key.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Don’t be so hard on yourself! You’re going to make mistakes, and that’s part of the process. Learn from them, grow, and leave them in the past. Also, life is short. Make every effort to be present. Take breaks, enjoy the little things, and surround yourself with people who lift you up.
