2020 Top Doctor: Tara Brodkin, M.D.
Tara Brodkin, M.D. is a recognized professional in the field of OB-GYN medicine. Med School/Year Graduated: Sackler School of Medicine, 1996. Years in Practice: 18.
- Specialty: OB-GYN
- Medical School: Sackler School of Medicine
- Year Graduated: 1996
- Years in Practice: 18
- Undergraduate Major: Microbiology, Cornell University
Educational Background and Career Path
Majoring in microbiology at Cornell University was fascinating. It definitely set me on my path to becoming an OB-GYN. We studied a lot of diseases and the prevention of the diseases, which helped me realize that I wanted to help women and spread awareness to prevent illness.
It was a great experience to live abroad in Tel Aviv. Professionally, studying [there] gave me a wider perspective of advancements in medical technology and surgery. I carried that knowledge with me through my continuation of education and am very grateful. To this day, I think of how [the specialty] is practiced elsewhere worldwide.
Perspectives on Women's Health and Patient Education
If you could compel all women to do one thing regarding their health, it would be to take an active interest to learn about their bodies and go for routine checkups!
On the one hand, women are empowered to make their own health care decisions like never before, but on the other, misinformation is rampant. I love that so many people are educating themselves via the internet, but I’m also discouraged that they don’t always consider the source of information. I would encourage patients to use the internet as a starting point for conversations with their doctors. And a quick tip: Really look at what’s in cleansing and hygiene products.
Memorable Medical Experiences
The most bizarre birth plan request would have to be the time I delivered a patient with her husband straddling her in bed, while surrounded by a plethora of candles, and Barry White’s music playing in the background.
Personal Interests and Life Balance
As a mother, it’s important but difficult to balance both my work life and family life. So on the rare day that I’m not rushing to someone else’s family, I’m with mine traveling, or going to barre class. “If I wasn’t a doctor, I’d be…” The curator of a fabulous art museum.