Kimberly Miller, MD

What is your practice philosophy? The basis of excellent and effective patient care is a good doctor-patient relationship. It is my mission to learn from each patient and to listen carefully, with intent. I will always strive to bring my best daily to every patient and treat them as if they were part of my own family.  

What are you passionate about? And why? I am passionate about cancer screening. Finding cancer early saves lives, period. I have performed research on using anti-diabetes drugs to fight certain types of cancer. I am also deeply concerned about healthcare disparities in our nation and abroad and have worked in a number of ways to fight for equality for all.  

If I wasn’t a provider, I would be a: I was thinking about becoming a neuroscientist before medical school, but now I think I would like to be an art/historical museum curator. I love art, but most of all I love learning about other cultures. Art is an enthralling window into other cultures, their language, their practices, and our joint humanity.  

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? When I was little I knew I wanted a job that would directly help others. I wasn’t sure what that would mean until my college years when my interest in the sciences was awakened. I had a mentor who was a pediatric neurologist, and he was the first person who peaked my interest in medicine. Medicine is different everyday, requires you to be a life-long learner, and you interact directly with people- which is really the joy of life. In medical school I realized that I loved working with my hands, and that being a surgeon allowed me to directly interact with someone and FIX the problem. Now, it is not always that easy of course, but at least I can take action and help. 

Something I have learned from my patients is: Not only are you treating a patient, but you by-extension are treating their friends, family, and significant-other. You are treating a son, daughter, mother, grandfather, uncle, nephew, etc. People come to us as a part of the community they live in, and the whole community wants to hear what we have to say and wants to ask questions. Sometimes there is a less extensive safety net for someone, and that person may need your support even more. 

One of the challenges of this career that I enjoy is (and why): Working with our cancer population. It is always hard to give bad news, but to be able to extend your hand and help walk a patient through their journey is a true honor. Each case is a challenge, and there is heartbreak at times. These are some of the most difficult journeys for patients and doctors, but being their partner throughout is one the most important ways we can help our patients.   

My personal health goal is: To be more active in general, and to start weightlifting more. I have been walking and running more since I got a new puppy, and I am so happy I made the decision to adopt him! 

What is the best thing you’ve done for your health or the best health advice you’ve received? Mindfulness. I do not practice it enough, but in this crazy world we live in, it is so important to connect with yourself, and reflect. This can help you throughout your day to make better decisions, and connect more honestly with the people around you and the moment you are in.  

What are you most proud of? Jump-starting research into anti-diabetes medications for use in preventing oral/oropharyngeal cancer in the pediatric Fanconi Anemia (FA)  population. My initial research has set larger trials into motion, and will hopefully become a much less morbid option for young people with FA who unfortunately develop cancer at early ages.  

What are a few of your personal achievements? Joseph Carter Award for Humanism- chosen by doctor colleagues to receive this award for demonstrating “high moral character, concern for patients and colleagues, and promoting good relationships amongst her own team, and in multidisciplinary teams.” 

           I have received multiple awards and grants for my research into cancer prevention in the Fanconi Anemia population.