My path to this unique aspect of my medical practice has been deeply personal and profoundly shaped by my father's healthcare journey. It began during my medical school years with his dementia diagnosis, and then, during my residency, he was diagnosed with cancer. As his condition progressed, I found myself not just as a daughter but also as the sole translator of complex medical language for my family.

 

The healthcare system appeared fragmented, especially for a patient with a cognitive disorder. His dementia seemed to overshadow his entire treatment, leading to misinterpreted symptoms, and his treatment plan failed to integrate his risk for comorbidities fully. As I advanced in my medical education and career, I realized neurocognitive care delivery needed dramatic improvement. There was a need for a holistic approach, one that understood the patient's entire narrative.

 

The complexities of neurocognitive disorders extend beyond medical care. After my father's death, we discovered unusual financial activities—a result of his cognitive decline. This ordeal opened my eyes to the broader impacts of neurocognitive disorders, affecting not just health but also personal autonomy and financial stability. The communication about the severity of my father's illness and his decision-making capacity was inadequate. We needed more transparent communication and better information to implement preventative measures. It underscored the importance of clear communication and the need for preemptive healthcare education so families can plan.

 

I realized that while my father's physicians were experts in their fields, they did not fully consider the familial implications of his illness. No one discussed my risk factors or the preventive steps my brother and I could take so that we reduced our own risk of a neurocognitive disorder. This lack of foresight and preventative medical care is an unacceptable gap.

 

My specialty within psychiatry is the relationship between trauma and physical health, both physical and emotional trauma. Trauma is universal for all humanity; how we react and what our bodies do in reaction makes the difference. Trauma and its impact on physical and psychological health are the essence of the human condition. My expertise further expanded to what is traditionally known as obesity medicine; this field delves into the science of inflammation and disease and is crucial for understanding, treating, and preventing cognitive disorders.

 

In 2022, I embarked on a legal education to master the language of the law and its application to healthcare. I aim to synthesize these languages, enabling me to navigate better and communicate cognitive care.  My vision is to establish a model of healthcare that is not merely comprehensive but also anticipatory, proactively addressing potential care issues before they arise.

 

I am committed to transforming healthcare, ensuring it is not only about treating illness but also about nurturing overall health, dignity, and quality of life. This mission is more than professional—it's a personal promise inspired by my journey, my father's memory, and the future I believe we can create.