National Women Physicians Day Spotlight: Dr. Deborah Prothrow-Stith
In honor of National Women Physicians Day, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU) celebrates women physicians whose presence and influence continue to transform medicine, strengthen communities, and elevate patient care.
For many women in medicine, mentorship, representation, and the guidance of those who came before them play a critical role in navigating the profession. That sentiment resonates with Dr. Deborah Prothrow-Stith, dean of the College of Medicine and founding dean of CDU’s 4-Year Medical Degree program.
“I stand on the shoulders of so many giants,” said Prothrow-Stith. “From the physician I had as a little girl to the mentors who helped me through medical school and beyond.”
A graduate of Spelman College and Harvard Medical School, Prothrow-Stith’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to public health, equity, and leadership. She’s a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine, a member of the National Academy of Medicine, and holds ten honorary doctorates. Additionally, she was named Woman of the Year for Los Angeles County’s Second District in 2017.
“I’m very proud of what we are doing in South Los Angeles at CDU,” said Prothrow-Stith. “We have started a new medical school on the border of Watts and Compton in South Los Angeles with a mission that is consistent with the neighborhood in which we are located.”
Additionally, Prothrow-Stith led the restart of the University’s residency programs in South Los Angeles after a hiatus following the closure of the former LA County King Hospital. Today, CDU sponsors residency programs in Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, General Psychiatry, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, fellowship programs in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, and is planning an additional residency in General Surgery.
As a physician, Prothrow-Stith recognizes the important role she plays in improving health outcomes for marginalized communities that have historically experienced inequities in care.
“In order to provide health and healthcare, we have to have trust with our patients and with the surrounding community,” she explained. “Having people who look like you, who have authentic experiences growing up the way you grew up, who understand the problems of the community, those things help to build trust, and that is the mission at CDU.”