In this Vital Signs series, we feature UNC School of Medicine recent graduate Madeline Thornton, MD, MPH. From Raleigh, North Carolina, Dr. Thornton recognized the importance of global health practice and the pivotal role doctors play during undergrad. She shares more about beginning her residency in her home state and the privilege of working in reproductive health.
Madeline Thornton is a recent UNC School of Medicine graduate. She explains why she’s drawn to patient-centered care and how medical school at Carolina was a full and fun educational experience.
Q. What interested you the most in high school and college? Did you always want to be a doctor?
I have always loved science, especially chemistry. Both of my parents are lawyers, so I entered college thinking I might be interested in patent law!
Q. Why did you choose to become a doctor?
During my freshman year of college, I took a biology class about AIDS and emerging diseases. I became fascinated by global/public health and the idea that social and political factors could influence one’s health and wellbeing. Since that time, I have been drawn to medicine and the role of a physician to advocate for patients and provide patient-centered, compassionate care that aligns with patients’ goals and desires.
Q. What is the most interesting part of medical school at Carolina?
The most interesting part of medical school at Carolina is without a doubt the incredible people! Every single person involved in our education from fellow medical students and residents, pre-clinical instructors and clinical preceptors, to administrators, have shown how everyone is committed to ensuring we have a full and fun educational experience.
Q. What do you plan to focus on after med school (residency in what and where)?
I am a first-year OBGYN resident at Duke! I am thrilled to be completing my training in North Carolina where I can continue to care for the people of my home state.
Q. What is your career goal?
I have not decided on a particular sub-specialty within OBGYN, but in general, my career goal is to support my patients in accessing medical and surgical care that aligns with their personal goals and preferences. As an OBGYN, I will have the unique privilege to partner with my patients in reproductive health decision-making throughout their life course.