Dr. Woodworth is a breast surgical oncologist at Keck Medicine of USC.
Here’s what you won’t find on her resume.
Her mom’s job inspired her to become a doctor.
“I knew I wanted to be a doctor from age four. I am the only doctor in my family, but my mom worked as a medical technologist drawing blood in a primary care physician office. I sometimes tagged along with her to work. I was so inspired by the doctors who could make sick people feel better, and I truly felt that it was a calling since that moment.
As I got older, I continued to explore the field and worked as an aide in a nursing home. I found such joy helping care for people and really felt motivated to make a difference in people’s lives, no matter what stage of it they were in.”
She enjoys hiking and leading her ‘Girl Talk’ group.
“When I’m not working, I’m usually thinking about how I can improve health care for the women of my community. I have started something called ‘Girl Talk’ in Santa Clarita to better educate women about different medical problems and where they can get the treatment they deserve.
Otherwise, I am usually hiking or exploring Southern California with my husband and my dog, Otis. We also love Paso Robles and frequently spend time there.”
Her family is large.
“People may be surprised to learn I have 11 siblings and 31 nieces and nephews.”
Her favorite movie takes place in a medical setting.
“My favorite movie is ‘Patch Adams’ starring Robin Williams.”
She enjoys international travel.
“I have two favorite travel destinations: Italy’s Amalfi Coast and Costa Rica.”
The best advice she’s ever heard:
“If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.”
Seeing her patients triumph is rewarding.
“I have patients who, when they’re first diagnosed with breast cancer, aren’t sure they’re strong enough to beat it. It’s immensely satisfying when a patient finishes treatment and realizes she’s more resilient than she ever knew. I tear up every time.”
She prioritizes patient education.
“My bedside manner is caring and informative. I love to teach patients about what is affecting them so they can understand why I recommend a certain treatment course.”
More advancements in genetics could be a game changer.
“I’m a genetics nerd. The medical breakthrough I’d love to see is for us to learn how to effectively map each person’s genome and identify which diseases we are at increased risk for. That information would inform us on effective lifestyle prevention strategies based on our own genetics.”
What sets Keck Medicine apart?
“I feel that at Keck Medicine, we truly have the best physicians in each field. They’re the nicest people, too.
In the Breast, Endocrine and Soft Tissue Surgery division at Keck Medicine, I believe we have better communication than any other institution. We regularly review the latest research together and discuss it to determine how we will integrate it into our practice.”
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