Doctor in Training with a Global Mission

Zena Simmons Preventative Medicine Specialist Sacramento, CA

Zena Simmons, MS, MPH is currently a medical student at UC Davis School of Medicine and previously attended Pepperdine University where she recieved a B.S in Sports Medicine and attended Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science where she received a Masters of Science in Biomedical Sciences and a Masters of Public... more

As a medical professional and a future doctor with a global mission, I aim to improve health systems and health outcomes domestically and around the globe. There are a plethora of determining factors that contribute to health outcomes. Doctors and doctors in training need to be informed of these factors as they practice medicine. Medical education is quickly growing and incorporating these skills in the curriculum to ensure that future physicians understand the social determinants of health and get a more well-rounded education. Additionally, there has been a major increase in global education across medical schools which is tremendously useful to students not only to gain international expertise that can be applied to medical practice in the U.S., but also to introduce the importance of supporting communities across nations - as we are one world.

Further, research is an extremely important component in medicine and having research experience is valuable for any doctor in training and physician because medicine is evolving and the ability to both understand and contribute to this evolution is imperative. Research allows us to discover new interventions for existing conditions and the ability to apply such newfound knowledge requires a great deal of critical thinking. Some medical schools have incorporated research into the medical curriculum to ensure these critical thinking skills can be effectively applied in a medical research setting and many physicians carry out research studies to improve the quality of care they offer their patients.

As a nation with many resources, I believe there are many resources allocated to support healthcare and health systems, however, the way the resources are being used and the systems in place can be modified and strengthened to improve quality of care and health outcomes. Health outcomes in the U.S. are not favorable relative to other first world countries despite the fact that the U.S. spends more on healthcare than the majority of other nations in the world. With the right framework and effective interventions these outcomes can improve. As a health professional that prioritizes the multiple facets of medicine, I am committed to continuing work and encouraging work in global health, public health, research, systems and quality improvement to strengthen our healthcare system and aim to not only better educate existing physicians and future physicians, but also the population, to promote healthier communities and individuals in our society and around the world.