Every day, our doctors go above and beyond to help our communities heal. On March 30, we celebrate Doctors’ Day, expressing our appreciation to those who care for us and guide us to maintain a healthy lifestyle all year.
Alyce Adams, MD, internal medicine physician with St. Francis Medical Group, has been part of our ministry for five years and practicing medicine for more than 40 years. She shared her thoughts on being a doctor.
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine/healthcare? Why did you choose your specialty?
I became excited about the possibility of helping communities suffering from inadequate health preventive care measures. I was keenly interested in public health. Even as a child I had seen the racial disparities in health outcomes and the disparities between the wealthy and the poor.
2. Have there been any challenges you’ve faced and overcome in your career journey?
As a child I had seen the racial disparities in health outcomes and the disparities between the wealthy and the poor. No matter which specialty I trained for, I was going to dedicate myself to helping eradicate barriers to health equity and help increase access to preventive health measures.
3. What do you like most about being a doctor?
I like to take a complete look at a patient’s problems and determine a diagnosis based on assessment of physical findings and appropriate testing. Though I have practiced now for over 40 years, I still am excited about caring for my patients and can’t wait to get to work in the morning!
4. If you weren’t a doctor, what would you do?
I would be a teacher helping to educate the minds of future doctors, nurses, etc.
5. How do you ensure your patients feel heard during their visit?
I listen to them.
6. Why did you choose the Physician Group for your practice?
The Core Values of this organization are in keeping with my values.
7. What is something that people may be surprised to know about you?
When I’m not working, I like to travel but I also have fun socializing with friends and family locally.
