Women in Medicine: Dr. Ayisha Livingstone
Dr. Livingstone, from the Miller School of Medicine’s Class of 2003, has made a name for herself in a field historically dominated by men.
In September, we recognize and celebrate the vital role of women in medicine. This is a moment to recognize the trailblazing contributions women have made in advancing health care and to highlight their significant impact in the field. To mark this occasion, we asked a distinguished Miller School alumna to share what inspired her to pursue medicine and why it’s important for women to be represented in health care.
Ayisha Livingstone, M.D. ’03, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Memorial Hospital Residency ’08, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon for Broward Health Physicians Group, operating at Broward Health facilities and the Cypress Creek Outpatient Surgery Center in Fort Lauderdale. Dr. Livingstone’s focus is the diagnosis and treatment of upper-hand and upper-extremity injuries. Her expertise includes soft tissue injuries and fractures of the hand, wrist and forearm, as well as endoscopic carpal tunnel procedures, joint reconstruction of the hand and wrist fusion.
What made you want to pursue medicine?
I always wanted to do something impactful. Spending summers working in my aunt and uncle’s medical office showed me how respected and meaningful a career in medicine could be. Seeing family members who looked like me achieve their dreams made becoming a doctor feel possible.
What has been your experience as a woman in medicine?
I have always been very goal-oriented. I played sports year-round in high school and then basketball in college. Being a woman never stopped me from achieving anything that I wanted and I didn’t assume that it would be any different with wanting to be a doctor.
I think what makes me most proud of being a woman in medicine is that I’m showing those coming after me that it is possible to achieve what I have achieved and more.
Dr. Ayisha Livingstone
Medical school at the University of Miami was a phenomenal experience. There may have been some initial hesitation from those who knew me, with my unwavering desire and steadfastness in becoming an orthopedic surgeon. I think that’s just because, at that time, they knew how difficult it was for women in that field. However, the amount of support I received throughout my years in medical school and then residency was amazing.
What makes you proud to be a woman in medicine?
I do not think that I realized what an impact being a woman in my chosen field would have on the community that I chose to serve. Having women, both old and young, say to me that they were proud of me was not an uncommon experience. So, I think what makes me most proud of being a woman in medicine is that I’m showing those coming after me that it is possible to achieve what I have achieved and more.
Why is it important for women to be equally represented in the health care industry?
The feedback that I get from patients about how much they love seeing a woman doctor and a woman surgeon reinforces how much they need us for representation. I do think women may inherently bring a different approach to medicine and to their patients. We know that diverse perspectives improve patient care. It also better reflects the patient population, leading to more personalized and culturally competent care. It’s important for role modeling and mentorship, as well as policy and advocacy.
What advice would you give female medical students who are just beginning their journey into medicine?
I believe that finding a mentor is hugely important. It doesn’t have to be a woman surgeon in the type of medicine you may want to pursue. It doesn’t even have to be a woman physician. It just needs to be someone who fully supports you and your goals and is happy to lend their leadership and skills to help you achieve them. Embrace challenges as stepping stones toward your goals and never lose sight of your vision.
Tags: alumni, medical alumni, Orthopaedic surgery, orthopedic surgeons, orthopedic surgery, women in medicine