116: What a Doctor Looks Like with Dr. Tamika Cross

“It’s important, you know, if someone is telling you their story about a situation that has happened or has occurred, instead of writing them off or blowing them off or talking over them, just listen. You know, hear them out.” -Tamika Cross MD

 

In today’s episode, Dr. Jen Barna speaks with Dr. Tamika Cross, OB Gyn and author of the book, “What a Doctor Looks Like.” Dr. Cross knew at a young age that she wanted to pursue a career in medicine as a physician, but did not exactly know the steps it would take to achieve her dream. Through seizing opportunities, mentorship, hard work and perseverance, she was able to navigate many obstacles, including those related to racism, to ultimately achieve her childhood dream of becoming a physician.

 

One of many instances that highlight the extra burden of racism and implicit bias occurred when Dr. Cross was on a flight after attending a friend’s wedding, 30,000 feet in the air attempting to offer medical assistance to an unresponsive passenger, only to be denied access by crew members who did not believe she was a doctor. After sharing her story publicly, and gaining international media attention, Dr. Cross sparked a viral movement of thousands of medical professionals from all over the world that joined in solidarity posting pictures of themselves with the hashtag #whatadoctorlookslike. By exemplifying the diversity amongst doctors, this movement challenges the myth that there is one prototype for what a doctor looks like. In addition to starting an international conversation of bias in the workplace, Dr. Cross’ story became an integral part of diversity and inclusion training at schools and companies coast to coast.

You can purchase “What A Doctor Looks Like” by Tamika Cross MD here 

 

Dr. Cross currently lives and practices medicine in the Houston area and is from Detroit. She is co-owner of Serenity Women’s Health & Medspa, which launched in the middle of the pandemic. 

 

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Take Back Your Time: Get a Virtual Assistant

Working in the medical field is fulfilling but it can also be exhausting. Physicians often sacrifice their personal time to carry out their duties. They want to go on vacations, start passion projects, or start side businesses but finding the time seems impossible. Recently, more and more physicians are giving outsourcing a try. Outsourcing allows you to delegate tasks to virtual assistants so you can free up your time and finally do whatever it is you’ve been wanting to do.

 

Become a Medical Legal Consultant

We at DocWorking are excited to collaborate with Dr. Armin Feldman to bring you this opportunity to develop a side income or even a full time income while using your clinical skills!

 

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Change your trajectory: build financial independence and strength by working with our trusted resources. Working with a trusted financial planner and/or financial advisor can help you to create a specific plan that works for you. The right advisor can help you stay on track to reach your financial independence goal and your next vision.

 

Protect Yourself and Your Family with the Right Insurance

Doctors and their families need many types of insurance–and inadequate coverage can cost you dearly. Connecting with trusted insurance professionals in your area is recommended to be sure you’re appropriately covered.

 

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Podcast produced by: Amanda Taran