The AMA “Members Move Medicine” series profiles a wide variety of doctors, offering a glimpse into the passions of women and men navigating new courses in American medicine.
On the move with: Kevin H. McKinney, MD, an endocrinologist at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He is also a member of the AMA Minority Affairs Section and the AMA Academic Physicians Section.
AMA member since: 1989.
What inspired me to pursue a career in medicine: I was encouraged to serve by my mother, who was an independent pharmacist in Houston. She was in practice with family medicine physicians in Southeast Houston, and I saw the good work they did. My uncle was an orthopedic surgeon, and he earned prestige in his community.
How I move medicine: By mentoring residents and medical students at my institution, developing long-term relationships with the patients I serve, and by providing a consistent face at work and in the community.
Career highlights: Among many others, I have been chair of the AMA Minority Affairs Section, and also Speaker of the House of the National Medical Association.
Advice I’d give to those interested in pursuing a career in medicine: Keep an open mind and be flexible! It is important that you not only provide optimal medical care, but you provide an emphasis on health to everyone you meet—from family members to work colleagues.
How I give back to the community: I volunteer at health fairs, provide local speaking engagements and discuss STEM careers with children I contact. I directly engage local politicians on issues that affect physicians and patients. I work to improve communications with payers to improve the practice environment for physicians.
Aspect of my work that means the most: As an endocrinologist, keeping people healthy over the long term and seeing their appreciation is very rewarding.
My hope for the future of medicine: I hope that patients and physicians continue to work with each other to break down the existing barriers so that improved, equitable health care can be attained.
Visit MembershipMovesMedicine.com to learn more about other AMA members who are relentlessly moving medicine through advocacy, education, patient care and practice innovation, and join or renew today.
