Black History Month Spotlight: Dr. Shelby Brown
Wednesday, February 15, 2023
Media Contact: Sara Plummer | Communications Coordinator | 918-561-1282 | sara.plummer@okstate.edu
Shelby Brown, OSU Medicine resident
Where are you from?
Mesquite, Texas
Why did you want to be doctor?
Growing up I always loved going to the doctor’s office. I saw the perfect example of a kind, considerate, gentle pediatrician who I knew I wanted to be like when I grew up. As I grew older, I learned more and more about the field of medicine and became quite interested in women’s health. I volunteered throughout high school and college and really fell in love with obstetrics and gynecology.
Growing up, did you see many physicians and health care professionals that looked like you?
No, I didn’t. The first example I saw with a physician that looked like me was in college, and she was an OB/GYN.
Did that influence your decision to go into medicine?
Yes, it was a huge factor, because we need more representation in our field.
Were you encouraged to pursue medicine by teachers, professors, family and friends? If so, what did that mean to you?
My biggest supporters have always been my family and friends. They always encouraged me and supported me along the way, which was truly a blessing. There were times when the road got tough, and I was able to depend on my close friends and family for the push I needed to be successful.
Why is diversity important in medicine and health care?
Walking into a patient's room and having a connection with them is truly important for patient care. Whether you speak the same language, are from the same place, or are the same race, this makes a difference. It allows them to trust you, which is the most important thing when taking care of people. You want a doctor that is going to listen to you, advocate for you and do what's in the best interest of your care. Diversity in medicine gives every patient the opportunity to have that experience and connection, which can mean an overall better health outcome.