Niyati J. Nadkarni, MD

Niyati Nadkarni, MD, a gynecologic oncologist at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center, first considered a career in medicine in college – when she fell in love with biology.

Medical school helped develop her passion for OB/GYN care ñ she loved the idea of being an advocate for women's health. But it was during her first gynecologic oncology rotation during residency that her specialty became clear.

"It's a very unique experience," she said. "You're actually treating patients in the most vulnerable time of their lives."

Dr. Nadkarni treasures the long-term relationships she's able to build with her patients. Those relationships often start with that initial diagnosis, she said, and continues well past surgery, chemotherapy and follow-up care.

"There has to be this very intimate bond of the patient being able to trust her physician," she said. "Not only in the operating room, but throughout her entire journey of cancer care."

It's a journey, she said, that she promises her patients she'll be present for all of.

Of all the health systems Dr. Nadkarni has worked for, Methodist is the best, she said. She truly values The Meaning of Care, knowing that it helps ensure the best possible outcomes for her patients.

"It's about individualizing care for each patient. Every cancer is unique, so whenever I meet a patient, I try to treat them as if they were my family member and individualize their care based on what their needs are."

When she's not working, Dr. Nadkarni likes to stay active through yoga, kickboxing and walking. She also enjoys reading.