OSU-COM alumnus continues legacy of medicine in Tulsa

Wednesday, November 13, 2024

Media Contact: Neile Jones | Communications Manager | 918-561-1169 | neile.jones@okstate.edu

Dr. Brad Hardy always knew he wanted a career where he could make a difference, and that path led him to medicine.

For Hardy, the decision to become a physician was influenced by the legacy of his father and grandfather, both of whom were doctors in Tulsa.

“My grandpa started taking care of people in Tulsa in the early 1950s after having gone through medical school and a surgical fellowship right after World War II,” he said.

Growing up, Hardy spent time at his father and grandfather’s medical office in Tulsa, observing their interactions with patients.

“I have memories of going to their office on Peoria Avenue and going in the back door and seeing grandpa with his wingtip shoes and my dad maybe a little bit more relaxed in scrubs,” he said. 

The family legacy in medicine made it a natural choice for Hardy, who wanted a career where he could help people.

When it came time to choose a medical school, Hardy followed in his father’s footsteps and attended Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine at OSU Center for Health Sciences.

“It was very family friendly. It felt like you were with a group of like-minded individuals who were just kind and caring and wanted everybody to succeed,” he said. 

Hardy found that sense of community important, especially as he moved forward in his career. After completing his residency, he joined Saint Francis in Tulsa, where he has been ever since. In addition to his medical practice, Hardy has been instrumental in implementing artificial intelligence technologies at Saint Francis.

“The strides that AI has made over the last six months in regards to fluency and accuracy are astounding,” he said, highlighting that one of the AI tools allows physicians to focus more on patients and less on paperwork. “Our physicians say it’s put the joy back in medicine."

Hardy believes the implementation of AI has significantly improved both efficiency and patient care, reducing burnout and allowing doctors to spend more time with patients. He is passionate about how AI is transforming the medical field.

When Hardy isn’t focused on medicine, you’ll find him in the sky. A licensed pilot, Hardy has flown since he was a teenager.

“I got my pilot’s license on my 17th birthday,” he said. “It’s something I’ve loved since I was a kid, and it’s a great way to spend time with my family and unwind.” 

Hardy recently celebrated 10 years of marriage with his wife, Laura, a registered nurse. They have two sons Wyatt, 5, and Max, 8.

From his family’s legacy in Tulsa medicine to his current role as a physician, Hardy’s journey has been shaped by passion and a commitment to inspire the next generation of doctors.