Empowering Excellence in Women's Healthcare: Dr. Kecia Gaither

Black History Month is a time not only to honor the remarkable contributions of Black Americans who have shaped our nation, but also to spotlight contemporary trailblazers who continue to break barriers and pave the way for future generations. Among them is PAGNY’s highly accomplished Dr. Kecia Gaither, M.D., M.P.H, M.S., M.B.A., an exemplar of excellence in women's healthcare and a tireless advocate for maternal and fetal health equity.

A Harlem native, Dr. Gaither's roots run deep in New York City. She grew up near the 149th Street Bridge, which connects Harlem to the South Bronx community she now serves every day as the Director of Perinatal Services, the Director of Maternal Fetal Medicine, and the Institutional Review Board Chair at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln.

Dr. Gaither is a highly decorated physician, having won numerous prestigious awards and coveted appointments. Castle Connelly recognized her as an Exceptional Woman in Medicine in 2023, and as a Top Black Doctor in both 2023 and 2024. She’s also a liaison to the Association of Black Cardiologists, a Fellow at the American Institute of Ultrasound Medicine, and a recent appointee to the African American Advisory Board for Westchester County.

In addition to her responsibilities at H+H/Lincoln, Dr. Gaither is a passionate advocate for a variety of issues. She is a prolific author and reviewer who contributes to scientific journals, consumer health outlets, and publications like The Huffington Post and U.S. News & World Report, and lends her expert opinion to print journalism, podcast and radio, television, and film. Dr. Gaither uses her platform to shed light on issues ranging from women’s health and pregnancy to environmental and population health policy, and has reached millions. Dr. Gaither is also committed to nurturing the next generation of women’s health physicians. She is an Associate Professor of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology at Cornell University’s Weill School of Medicine.

Dr. Gaither is inspired to practice medicine as a PAGNY provider because she feels a “particular kinship” to her South Bronx patient population. She feels that it’s her responsibility to ensure that everyone in her community receives the highest standard of care when they walk through H+H/Lincoln’s doors. Her holistic approach to public health and making sustainable change can be summed up by the “Three P’s”: Population Health, Policy, and Programs.

When asked about a Black artist or author who inspires her, Dr. Gaither pointed to Maya Angelou, and her poem “Phenomenal Woman,” noting that the poem serves to “uplift, inspire, and empower.” She points to the last verse and the significant impact it’s had on her:

Dr. Gaither embodies what it means to be a "Phenomenal Woman,” a beacon of strength, resilience, and power. Her journey from Harlem to the forefront of women's healthcare is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, compassion, and resolve.