PM Resident/Med Student Spotlight: Winnie Rao

MD Candidate 2023 Drexel University College of Medicine Chair, PCMS Medical Student Section

As Chair of the PCMS MSS and a Medical Student Section leader, Member of the PCMS Board of Directors, Delegate to the House of Delegates, member of the AMA, etc., how has organized medicine impacted your career in medicine?

Being involved in organized medicine within different roles, I have learned how to become a better advocate and a better leader for my colleagues and my patients. I have learned how to communicate effectively to support policy. These experiences allow me to continue to my involvement in organized medicine as a physician.

What drew you to Philadelphia ?

I was born and raised in Philadelphia. As I left the city for college, I realized how much I loved Philadelphia and how much the city offers especially the residents and the delicious food.

What do you like most about medical school?

I currently go to Drexel University College of Medicine and what I love most about this school is their commitment to its community. In the first year of medical school we’re required to do service around Philadelphia. I love that I am able to understand the needs of local residents and how their needs affect their health. They also have Health Outreach Project (HOP), a student run clinic that allowed me to work as a patient advocate at the Streetside Clinic at Prevention Point in the Kensington neighborhood. One of the reasons that led me to medicine was the ability to give back to the community from which I came, and I valued that the medical school’s curriculum provided that. I also appreciate the support from my medical school peers and faculty. I would not be where I am today without them.

Are you involved in any community, or non-profit organizations? If so, please list the groups:

N/A ):

What are your hobbies and interests?

I recently received a certification in free diving allowing me to always test my limits underwater. I also love going outdoors either running or hiking. And also spending time with my dog.

For what reason(s) did you become a member of the Philadelphia County Medical Society and what do you value most about your membership?

I believe there is more to treating a patient than within the four walls of a medical office. I believe as a physician, it is important to be involved in policy as it plays a huge part in addressing the health inequities seen in our patients. What drew me to Philadelphia County Medical Society was their commitment in advocating for their patients, colleagues, and the voices of medical students. I value the ability to network with local physicians and medical students throughout the city with the help of this society. Joining this society was the first step for me as a student to get involved with local and state policy as well as learning how to write and submit resolutions into the state. Compared to other counties throughout the state, I believe PCMS has been the most supportive medical society of medical student voices. I also appreciate that this county offers a free membership for medical students because this allows me to get involved with policy without the worry of annual fees. •