Power Women 2021: Lauren Hendrix, MD
Urologist
Arkansas Urology
What’s your secret to success?
I never allow myself to feel as though I’ve crossed the finish line. I am always looking for new ways to improve myself or my practice or other aspects of my life. This keeps me motivated to constantly move in a positive direction.
What attracted you to your career?
Dr. Michael Weber was the on-call orthopedic surgeon when I broke my arm during a cartwheel-gone-wrong incident, and I very clearly remember being in awe of him and how he “fixed me.” So, from the age of 8, I knew I also wanted to “fix people.”
Which of your accomplishments are you most proud?
I won the Standardized Patient Award for best bedside manner my final year in medical school. My goal is to be able to empathize with my patients, so this was quite the honor.
How do you maintain a work/life balance?
Some days, I don’t! This is definitely a struggle with the time required to see patients in the office, manage a surgery schedule and take call. I do my best to make efficient use of my time at work so that I can focus on my family when I am at home. I also have an amazing support system comprised of family, friends and colleagues that understands the struggles of a working mom and goes out of its way to help when and where it can.
What obstacles have you had to overcome?
Urology has the lowest percentage of women physicians of ALL the medical specialties, and this has been evident since day one of urology residency. I am often asked, “Are YOU the doctor?,” or “Do YOU do the surgery?,” or “Why would you want to do urology?” This used to bother me because I thought it was a challenge to my competence, but I now feel that it gives me an underdog advantage and a constant opportunity to surprise and impress.
