Women's History Month: Savitri Skandan, MD, on Resilience and Passion

Savitri Skandan, MD, is the Associate Chief, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology at LVH–Muhlenberg. She is also a member of the breast cancer multidisciplinary consultation team. She honors the generations of women who have paved the way for her own career in health care during Women’s History Month.

More than a third of all physicians in the U.S. are women. Additionally, there are more women than men in medical schools, according to 2019 data from the Association of American Medical Colleges.

It is important to note that women physicians have faced distinct challenges, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The combination of professional workload and family caregiving has increased stress and burnout. Unfortunately, a significant proportion of female physicians are considering working only part-time. Thus, organizations must celebrate women in medicine to advance equity for female physicians and their patients.

Growing up, I aspired to become a physician. My goal has always been to make my patients feel fulfilled in life. I focus on women’s health, specializing in breast cancer and gynecological malignancy. Despite the challenges as a female physician, my profession has given me immense satisfaction in taking care of my patients who benefit from medical expertise.

My advice to women entering the field of medicine is to be resilient and true to yourself. Have a mentor to seek guidance and make time for self-care. There is light at the end of the tunnel, and your perseverance will transform lives in your community.