Celebrating National Women Physicians Day: Spotlight on ACHC’s Outstanding Female Physicians

Embrace a Healthier You in the New Year with Advantage Care Health Centers!
January 2, 2024

In honor of National Women Physicians Day, we take a moment to celebrate the remarkable achievements and contributions of five exceptional female physicians at our healthcare center, each making a significant impact in their respective fields. Two of them, Dr. Bates and Dr. Mulqueen, specialize in primary care, while Dr. Perr, Dr. Kathpalia, and Dr. Francis-Stewart are dedicated to behavioral health.

Dr. Bates: A Passion for Primary Care and Equality in Healthcare

Dr. Bates, a cornerstone of our primary care team, shares insights into her journey and the meaningful aspects of her career.

Q: What led you to a career in healthcare? Was Primary Care working with IDD individuals always your chosen discipline?

Dr. Bates: I dreamed of being a doctor since childhood, influenced by my father and mother in the medical field. My uncle’s resilience, despite a brain injury, highlighted healthcare disparities for people with disabilities. This awareness fueled my commitment to primary care, ensuring inclusivity in healthcare.

Q: What are some things you love about your job and working at ACHC?

Dr. Bates: I cherish the teamwork and common mission at ACHC. Strategic planning, connecting with patients, and the privilege of making a difference in their lives bring profound satisfaction.

Q: What accomplishments are you most proud of?

Dr. Bates: My commitment to personal health and contributing to a clinic with outstanding clinical performance and customer service are achievements that bring me pride.

Q: What advice would you give to women starting a career in healthcare?

Dr. Bates: Pace yourself, avoid comparisons, develop self-awareness, and learn essential skills. Be patient, plan meticulously, and cultivate a supportive network. Embrace self-care and contribute to improving systems.

Q: What does National Women Physicians Day mean to you?

Dr. Bates: It’s an opportunity to celebrate accomplishments, promote equal opportunities, and strive for progress in disease prevention and exceptional care.

Dr. Kathpalia: Dedication, Devotion, and Balancing Act in Behavioral Health

Dr. Kathpalia, a beacon in behavioral health, provides insights into her career journey and how she navigates challenges.

Q: How did you get to where you are in your career?

Dr. Kathpalia: Sheer hard work, passion since early years, and unwavering family support propelled me in my career.

Q: What obstacles have you overcome in your career?

Dr. Kathpalia: Balancing long work hours, sacrificing personal time, and juggling family responsibilities were significant obstacles. I gave up certain opportunities as a physician but remained committed to patient care.

Q: What motivates you, and how do you stay motivated?

Dr. Kathpalia: Passion for patient care, improving well-being, and advocating for healthcare quality keep me motivated.

Q: What advice do you have for aspiring female physicians?

Dr. Kathpalia: Be a kind, complete woman. Embrace responsibilities with heart, balance both professional and family roles, and approach everything with passion.

Q: How do you reconcile work-life balance with career opportunities?

Dr. Kathpalia: Acknowledge the additional burden women carry in family roles. Stay positive, confident, and resilient, ignoring societal judgments. Have faith, self-respect, and keep moving forward.

Q: Are there resources/books you recommend for career guidance?

Dr. Kathpalia: No specific books but valuable advice from elders and mentors, emphasizing faith, spirituality, and honesty.

On this National Women Physicians Day, let us applaud these extraordinary women physicians for their dedication, passion, and invaluable contributions to healthcare. May their stories inspire future generations of women in medicine.

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