Before arriving to her current position in a group private practice in Dallas, Sarah Ashitey, MD, worked in urgent care, a rural clinic, and a large hospital-owned clinic. She now serves a diverse patient population, incorporating integrative medicine to care for the whole patient. Ashitey’s childhood in West Africa planted the seed that would one day lead to her career in community medicine and advocating for access to care. She completed medical school at UT Southwestern and a family medicine residency with JPS in Fort Worth.
Who or what inspired you to become a family physician?
Growing up in West Africa, I witnessed the powerful impact of medicine on community health. The health insurance scheme increased access to care, and I saw firsthand how community doctors and nurses worked tirelessly to meet the needs of people in resource-poor settings. These experiences planted the seed for my desire to serve people through medicine.
What unique challenges are represented in your patient community?
I've discovered that many of the challenges to health care access in Ghana are similar to those faced by my current patient population, even among more affluent individuals. To be an effective physician, I must address factors outside of the patient encounter. This is why I advocate to legislators, serve on TAFP’s Council for the Health of the Public, and engage with various community organizations to tackle socioeconomic health factors collaboratively.
What brings you joy in your work?
Seeing the positive effects of improved health on my patients, their families, and their overall fulfillment brings me immense joy. Witnessing patients achieve better health not only impacts their personal lives but also enhances their work and sense of purpose.
Why do you choose to be a TAFP member?
The Texas Academy of Family Physicians has been incredibly supportive in building my career. The meaningful work they do aligns with my values, especially their efforts to support physician well-being and improve the overall health of Texans.
What do you enjoy doing outside of medicine?
I enjoy spending time with my family, playing tennis, and creative writing. My secret dream is to write a screenplay, which I guess is no longer a secret!
TAFP’s Member of the Month program highlights Texas family physicians in TAFP News Now and on the TAFP website. We feature a biography and a Q&A with a different TAFP member each month and his or her unique approach to family medicine. If you know an outstanding family physician colleague who you think should be featured as a Member of the Month or if you’d like to tell your own story, nominate yourself or your colleague by contacting TAFP by email at tafp@tafp.org or by phone at (512) 329-8666.