Power Women 2021: Courtney Sick, MD
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Conway Regional Renaissance Women’s Center
How did you get started in your field?
I worked as a nurse for about two years before deciding to pursue medical school. My time as a nurse enabled me to gain knowledge and experience that has proven to be invaluable as a physician. I learned the inner workings of a hospital and how to communicate with patients. I know that I am a much better physician because I began my health care career as a nurse.
What do you love best about what you do?
As a woman, I know better than anyone how women often care for everyone else before caring for themselves. I love being an advocate for these women and helping them learn the importance of caring for themselves. There is also nothing more rewarding than helping a family grow by bringing a life into the world. Some of the most memorable and significant events of my career have been helping a family navigate life through a tragedy, whether it is a miscarriage, infertility, a stillbirth, an unexpected cancer diagnosis or an unexpected surgery.
What advice would you give to a young
woman starting her career?
The best advice I can give a female starting her career is to get involved in your community. I received the same advice, and I have been able to grow my practice by developing these relationships.
How did your education prepare you for your
career?
The training that is required to become a physician is like nothing else. The length of the training, the time commitment and sacrifices that are required is something I have never encountered when talking to other people about their education. Physicians should be lifelong learners. The field of medicine is constantly changing so it is crucial to stay up to date by continuing to learn and being open to new ideas.
Which of your accomplishments are you most proud?
My biggest professional accomplishment is, of course, graduating residency and growing my clinical practice over the past six years. On a personal note, for the past two years, I have served as a board member for Mamie’s Poppy Plates (a Little Rock-based organization that supports families after perinatal loss). Working with this nonprofit and helping them grow and reach more families is by far my greatest accomplishment.
How do you maintain a work/life balance?
This is the million-dollar question for all OB/Gyn physicians. I do not think I have this mastered, nor will I probably ever have it mastered. I have learned the importance of setting boundaries, and that sometimes I do have to say no, and that is OK. I am sure that adjustments will be made in my work life as my children get older and their needs change.
What obstacles have you had to overcome?
I went through some serious health issues during my training that had me questioning whether I would be able to finish my residency. Luckily, I also had several other physicians, friends and family who encouraged me to not give up on my career. I eventually decided to take a year off, but I was able to overcome those challenges and finish my residency. While that was one of the most challenging times I have ever experienced, dealing with those issues has made me a better physician.
Do you have a favorite quote?
“Wherever the art of medicine is loved, there is also a love of humanity.”
— Hippocrates
