Resident Spotlight
Meet Rafael L Baker, MD, PGY1
Hometown: Brunswick, Ga.
Q: What motivated you to choose a career in Orthopaedics?
A: Orthopaedics is a specialty where you can impact the quality of life of others in various ways. I enjoy the ability to see an issue and address the problem and see that work manifest in the satisfaction of the patient. I genuinely enjoy the team-like environment and helping others get back to doing their desired things. Orthopaedics is a growing specialty, with many innovations coming soon, making the field appealing.
Q: As we navigate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) - from your perspective, what would you want your ortho colleagues to know?
A: I would like others to know that diversity at all levels is great for the culture, the development of future leaders, and our patients.
Q: Are you involved in any programs, projects, or groups?
A: Yes, I co-founded DPOM (Duke Pathway to Orthopaedic Mentorship Program), a program devoted to increasing diversity within Orthopaedics through a structured mentorship curriculum for underrepresented minorities in medicine at Duke University School of Medicine. I also mentor high school students from my hometown high school and speak to students at my alma mater, Morehouse College, whenever I visit the town. It is essential to be visible and show others that you can achieve your goals no matter your background and upbringing.