Ngozi Nwankpa, MD, MHL, FACOG, Vice Chair and Director of Quality, Obstetrics and Gynecology at NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi and North Central Bronx, and Director on the Physician Affiliate Group of New York, P.C. (PAGNY) Board of Directors
In honor of Women in Medicine Month, we proudly feature Dr. Ngozi Nwankpa, a leader in obstetrics and gynecology and a Director on the Physician Affiliate Group of New York, P.C. (PAGNY) Board of Directors. She shares her journey, leadership insights, and advice for future leaders in this inspiring Q&A.
PAGNY: Can you tell us about your current role and background with PAGNY?
Dr. Nwankpa: I currently serve as Vice Chair and Director of Quality in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at NYC Health + Hospitals Jacobi and North Central Bronx. I am also the Site Director of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women's Health Services at the North Central Bronx campus. In addition, I am honored to serve as a Director on the Physician Affiliate Group of New York (PAGNY) Board of Directors. Soon, I will be stepping into the role of Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at NYC Health + Hospitals Kings County. I’ve been with NYC Health + Hospitals since 2007 and with PAGNY since its inception in 2010.
PAGNY: What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine, and what have been some key milestones in your journey?
Dr. Nwankpa: From an early age, I knew I wanted to be a physician. My passion for women’s health was sparked during a community health and social medicine course, where I was placed at an STD clinic in the South Bronx. I shadowed the clinic's director, a nurse practitioner, and witnessed how preventative medicine, patient-provider relationships, and patient education give way to patient self-advocacy. After that, I was sold on a career in women’s health.
My clinical rotation as a medical student deepened my appreciation for obstetrics and gynecology, which combines preventative care, obstetric care, reproductive health, imaging, and surgery.
PAGNY: How do you see your leadership impacting the healthcare field and the communities you serve?
Dr. Nwankpa: As a physician, my goal is to bring quality to every patient interaction, ensuring they feel seen and heard, and leave empowered to make decisions that support their health and quality of life. Over time, this impact has grown from the individual patient level to influencing teams and healthcare systems. I am a trained healthcare simulation educator and hold a master’s degree in healthcare leadership.
Some initiatives I’ve led include expanding prenatal care in Bronx communities, developing an enterprise-wide workflow for antepartum anesthesiology consultations, increasing access to medical student education, and enhancing prenatal ultrasound services at North Central Bronx. It’s a privilege to serve in roles that help shape the future of healthcare delivery.
PAGNY: What advice would you give to women aspiring to leadership roles in medicine?
Dr. Nwankpa: My advice to future leaders is to examine your values and understand what drives you. Work toward your goals with integrity, surround yourself with trusted advisors, and practice gratitude. Most importantly, seek balance—because sustainable leadership is rooted in a balanced life.
Dr. Ngozi Nwankpa’s dedication to advancing women's health and her commitment to patient-centered care embodies PAGNY’s mission to provide quality healthcare to all communities in New York City. Her leadership, compassion, and collaborative approach not only uplift her colleagues but also inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals. We are proud to have Dr. Nwankpa as a leader at PAGNY and commend her tireless efforts in driving excellence and innovation in healthcare.
Interested in a career with PAGNY?