Leadership

Uzoagu A. Okonkwo: Helping patients in best way possible

. 2 MIN READ
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The AMA “Members Move Medicine” series profiles a wide variety of doctors, offering a glimpse into the passions of women and men navigating new courses in American medicine.

On the move with: Uzoagu A. Okonkwo, who is a fourth-year medical student at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine.

AMA member since: 2011.

What inspired me to pursue a career in medicine: I was always fascinated with the intersection between science and medicine and wanted to play an integral part in that.

How I move medicine: With my diversity and curiosity.

Career highlights: I was a Siemens Science Competition Semi-Finalist, and Junior Science and Humanities Symposium Regional Semi-Finalist in high school. Having these accomplishments in high school opened my eyes to medical research and set the goal to pursue an MD/PhD.

Advice I’d give to those interested in pursuing a career in medicine: It is OK to seek help and guidance along the way. This journey is a team effort!

Aspect of my work that means the most: I find the most meaning in seeing the teamwork and collaboration between doctors and other health providers to ultimately help patients in the best way possible.

How I advocate for physicians and patients: I’m a firm believer in the adage of, “See something, say something.” I believe everyone should be treated with dignity and respect, whether you are a student or patient, young or old, immigrant or native.

My hope for the future of medicine: That medicine continues to acknowledge the importance of diversity in health care and making medicine a personal experience.

Visit MembershipMovesMedicine.com to learn more about other AMA members who are relentlessly moving medicine through advocacy, education, patient care and practice innovation, and join or renew today.

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