Katherine Taylor, DO

“The people really do make all the difference.”

What makes your Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) training program different from other programs across the country?

It may sound corny, but the people really do make all the difference. From family medicine program shifts on inpatient floors or at clinic, to learning with other programs like ED and rheumatology, preceptors/attendings are genuinely here to teach and support you while providing space for autonomy, and genuinely want to see you grow and succeed. 

What has been the most extraordinary part of your training experience so far?

Healing! In the process of getting through medical school and through life to this point, we have built up a lot of expectations for ourselves and “should” thoughts that might not match with our ideal or current self. These cause inner turmoil and can be very heavy burdens to carry when you’re trying to help others heal in your new role as a physician. This program helps us identify/recognize these, work through them and emerge as a better person, healed and ready to have a strong career in medicine and live a balanced life overall. 

What is one memory you have from your training so far that will stick with you for your career?

I have plenty of deep, meaningful patient stories, but I must mention my colleague Dervins [Germinal, DO], who is my inspiration for authenticity and joy. We high-five, jam to random music lines and he shares his morning workout journey. I love his energy in clinic, inpatient service and in learning labs. I hope to mirror some of it and have someone in my clinic like him always. 

What is one piece of advice you would share with someone as they select a training program?

There are so many factors to consider, and you might have many opinions to consider as well. You will most likely get a good training wherever you end up, and in the end it’s up to you to get the most out of these years. Your decision is personal. I came here because they picked me too; I moved my family 1,000 miles north from Orlando because this felt like home. Even without stepping foot here, even with only a virtual interview, this felt like my home for education, career and personal growth. 

What does it mean to be a resident at LVHN?  

It means wholehearted acceptance and learning on the way to thriving.