Joanne Sarroza, an OB/GYN Physician, has over 25 years of experience in the medical field. She got her start at Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1997. After graduation, Joanne interned at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Ravenswood in 1998 and completed her residency at Franciscan St. James Health in 2002.
What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare?
My Mom. She was a pediatrician and would take me with her when she would make rounds at the hospital when I was little. I loved it! I thought the hospital and all the doctors and nurses were so cool! I also really liked biology and science, so it was a very natural progression.
What is your favorite Erie memory?
There are so many! But I think the one I always tell people about is my very first day at Erie. I needed some blood drawn for HR, and I met Mateo, the medical assistant in the lab. He was energetic, welcoming, and excited for me to be a new OB doctor at Erie. I just knew that this was a special place….and here I am 10 years later! It's been a very fun and rewarding journey!
What surprised you most about working at Erie?
The great collaboration among providers across all specialties and the different Erie sites surprised me most about working at Erie. I love that we treat all of the patients as a team and communicate any changes or plans with each other. Some of our patients are very complex, and good communication goes a long way in managing their healthcare!
What is your favorite Erie memory?
There are so many! But I think the one I always tell people about is my very first day at Erie. I needed some blood drawn for HR, and I met Mateo, the medical assistant in the lab. He was energetic, welcoming, and excited for me to be a new OB doctor at Erie. I just knew that this was a special place….and here I am 10 years later! It's been a very fun and rewarding journey!
Is there a patient or patient story that has inspired you during your time at Erie?
All of our patients inspire me! They keep me grounded. They help remind me that everyone goes through hardships in their health and life. Our true purpose is to help each other as best as we can when we are able.
Do you have a favorite quote or mantra?
Healthcare is a human right!
What does AAPIH month mean to you, and how do you plan to observe it?
My brother and I were the only Asian kids in our whole grammar school. I got bullied a lot for being smart…for being different. They made fun of how I looked, my clothes, and even my mom's lunch worked hard to make for me. So, I spent most of my childhood trying to "fit in." I love that AAPIH month celebrates our differences and our culture. I am proud to be Asian American and being Filipino especially. My parents immigrated to the US, worked hard, and provided my brother and me with a good life and a good education to achieve whatever we wanted in life. This month, I will celebrate them. I will continue to work against Asian hate and probably eat some great Filipino food!