Name
Catherine H. Kuo, MD
Residency Program
Family Medicine
Program Year
PGY-2
Medical School
St. George’s University School of Medicine
Home
Bellevue, WA
About
Why did you choose a career in family medicine?
If there’s one thing to know about me, it would be this – I’m a curious person! Family Medicine allows me to learn something new every day. In one day, I can do a well-child check, start an antidepressant regimen, insert a Nexplanon contraceptive implant, and so much more! You never know what clinic will entail which allows me to provide true broad spectrum care, treat holistically, and stay intellectually challenged daily. What brings me the most joy though is building long term relationships with my patients and their families. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing someone take pride in their own healthcare. The versatility of our field drew me in, but patient empowerment is the reason Family Medicine is my vocation.
What are some of your fondest memories of medical school?
My enthusiasm for travel and new perspectives led me to pursue a global health program in medical school. During my first year in England, I helped coordinate round table dinners with lecturers from diverse backgrounds in medicine and met an NHS physician with a special interest in Sub-Saharan Africa health initiatives. Inspired by our shared passion for global health equity, we created a project in rural Zambia where we spent several days camping and commuting by canoe (through crocodile and hippo infested waters!) to provide primary care consults on remote islands. Another highlight was establishing a roadside crafting center for locals to have a sustainable source of income to help pay for medications. I do hope to return one day and possibly oversee the building of a clinic. It’s not lost on me that going to medical school is a privilege and the best way I can honor that privilege is to advocate for underserved communities with limited access to healthcare.
What drew you to pursue the Family Medicine residency program with NGMC and to be in Georgia?
Somewhere along my “non-traditional” route in medical school, I fortunately found myself on a FM sub-internship at NGMC during my final year. I immediately gained a strong sense of camaraderie amongst the entire team and was inspired by their growth mindset. I remember a resident telling me that this program truly put the “family” into Family Medicine. On the last day of my rotation, all I wanted to do was walk right back through the doors of Medical Park 2. I could tell this was a special place where I could grow not just professionally, but personally as well. I felt incredibly happy- and still am today!
What were your favorite clubs/activities in high school?
I was a proud member of ASB leadership and the tennis team, and an even prouder member of the handbell choir. I also signed up for canyoneering in Utah and studied the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Israel as my spring break adventures. Looking back, this seems like quite a diverse range of activities with no connecting theme whatsoever…like I said, I’m just curious!
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy reading (Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese, 10/10 would recommend), fangirling over The Great British Bake Off, coffee sourcing/homebrewing, travelling, and dreaming about my favorite food: dosas!
Do you have a special interest in the field of Family Medicine?
Global/population health, mental health and preventative care. I especially enjoy learning about the community level factors that influence an individual’s health and hope to strike a balance between advocating for sustainable health solutions at home and abroad.