In honor of Black History Month, PAGNY is proud to feature Dr. Lisa A. Ross, Director of the Department of Anesthesia at NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem. Dr. Ross holds an MD and an MBA, and is a Fellow of the American Society of Anesthesiologists. She also inspires the next generation of medical professionals every day as an Associate Professor of Clinical Anesthesia at Columbia University Medical Center.
Dr. Lisa A. Ross, Director, Anesthesia at NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem.
We sat down with Dr. Ross to learn more about her experience as a Black medical provider. Here’s what she had to say:
PAGNY: Why is Black representation in medical professionals important?
Dr. Ross: Even though there are many physicians who are not Black who advocate for the underserved community, I believe that Black medical professionals serve as role models to adults and children that come through our doors. Many times, I have had patients comment on how “nice” it is to see not just a Black physician but a Black female physician. In some ways, I believe that there are patients who connect better with caregivers of the same race as theirs. They feel “heard.”
PAGNY: Which Black historical figures inspire you and your work the most?
Dr. Ross: I would say Nelson Mandela because he was a servant leader. Although I have many qualities to master before becoming a servant leader, I strive to come even close to the way in which he led his followers.
PAGNY: What advice would you give to the next generation of Black medical providers?
Dr. Ross: Even though there are many physicians who are not Black who advocate for the underserved community, I believe that Black medical professionals serve as role models to adults and children that come through our doors. Many times, I have had patients comment on how “nice” it is to see not just a Black physician but a Black female physician. In some ways, I believe that there are patients who connect better with caregivers of the same race as theirs. They feel “heard.”
Dr. Ross is a role model to her patients and team members. She exemplifies what it means to provide compassionate care to historically underserved communities, and inspires the next generation of physician leaders with her “servant-leader” ethic.
