<< Back

Dr. Cynthia Heller: The Challenges of Being a Woman in Medicine

February 03, 2022

By Dr. Cynthia Heller
Vice President & Physician In Chief
Hartford HealthCare Medical Group

Hartford HealthCare is proud to recognize National Women Physicians Day, which we observe on Feb. 3 to honor Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell’s birthday, who in 1849 became the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States. She initiated a movement helping women gain entry and equality in the field of medicine, which continues to this day.

When I began medical school in 1983, female students were few and far between. Only 20 percent of my 147 classmates were women (all of whom entered the field of either internal medicine, pediatrics or obstetrics). I’m delighted to see that the same school now enrolls 60 percent female students representing all medical specialties.

Being a woman in medicine, a field historically dominated by men, presented some unique challenges early in my career. Despite successfully juggling three children and a primary care practice, it didn’t stop some of my patients from calling me “honey” an awful lot. As in, “You’re too young to be a doctor, honey!”

As a clear minority in our workplace, the women physicians formed close bonds and turned to each other for encouragement and support. In the mid-90s, the Hartford Hospital Women Doctors support group was formed and met regularly to share our experience, which I remember being clinical, personal and inspiring.

I followed a path as a primary care physician to advocate for patients. I have continued that path into my leadership role to advocate for providers, staff and patients. I am proud that we now partner with our patients, rather than paternalistically telling them what they have to do (as was done forty years ago). Medicine is better for all the diversity; and I like to think I was part of that change.

On behalf of our entire leadership team, I ask that you please join us in recognizing National Women Physicians Day alongside our colleagues, friends and families — not just on Feb. 3, but each and every day.