Stephanie Contag, MD

What is your practice philosophy? 

I am a dedicated advocate for my patients.  I believe it is important to prioritize and protect patient autonomy and control over medical decision making, emphasizing the importance of informed consent. I value genuine connection with every patient. It is important to me that every patient feels understood, heard, and prioritized.  

What are you passionate about? And why? 

Learning new languages and exploring new cultures. I love to travel 

If I wasn’t a provider, I would be a: I would work for a non profit humanitarian organization and live abroad.  

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? 

My father is a physician. I wanted to follow in his footsteps, as his oldest daughter. I knew I wanted to go to medical school when I was in 7th grade.  

Something I have learned from my patients is: As a physician and surgeon I have the privilege of getting to know my patients and their families. I see people sometimes on their best day and sometimes on their worst day. I never take those moments for granted. I have learned the importance of listening, to what is said and what is not said in order to be my patient’s true advocate. I recognize the importance of the work that I do, and treat each patient as if he/she/they were a member of my own family.  

One of the challenges of this career that I enjoy is (and why):  "Is striving to provide culturally competent care to all my patients. I enjoy the challenge of really understanding my patient’s cultural context and language in order to provide well rounded, culturally sensitive care, and help my patient’s feel confident and safe as they navigate decision making about their health” 

My personal health goal is: o maintain daily movement as part of my routine. 

What is the best thing you’ve done for your health or the best health advice you’ve received? ”Just start moving. Small daily steps amount to big changes over time. Consistency is key.” 

What are you most proud of?  Becoming a surgeon and having the privilege of caring for patients

What are a few of your personal achievements? Running the TC Marathon in 2018