Born and raised right here in Portland, OR, Dr. Kate Wolpert joins the Baskin Clinic after receiving an MD from OHSU in 2012 and completing a residency in Family Medicine at McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden, Utah. We’re so excited to have them aboard!
As a way of getting to know the newest face around the clinic, we thought we’d have Dr. Kate answer a few introductory questions. Read on, and find out what makes our newest team member tick:
When did you figure out you wanted to be a doctor, and why?
I first remember thinking that the human body was super neat when I was about 6 years old, listening to my neighbor talk about how bones work. I thought about being a doctor all through school and college, when I was enjoying multiple biology and anthropology courses, but decided to try research first. I made my final decision after getting my master’s degree in molecular and cell biology — I finally knew I needed to combine all that science with humanity.
What do you love about being a doctor now?
I love that I get to read esoteric research studies and learn new things all the time, but really it all boils down to people preventing and solving problems together.
What facet of science or medicine are you currently most excited about or learning about?
Lots of things! I’ve been reading about the latest on the enteric nervous system, chemical dependence, and fasting.
What makes Baskin Clinic a good fit for you?
I love having the time available to dig deep into patients’ health questions and help find customized solutions. When I don’t know the answer, I have the flexibility to spend a few hours reading about the topic instead of rushing around pretending to take good care of everyone in just 15-minute visits.
What do you want everyone to know about health?
It truly does help most medical conditions when you eat your veggies and exercise. Yes, every day.
Tell us about one of your role models.
Unsurprisingly, my mother. She fights for what’s right and she devoted her career to helping underserved populations. Also, she climbs mountains!
What’s the last book you read?
The Longevity Diet by Valter Longo and Fantasyland: How America Went Haywire by Kurt Andersen.
What’s an ideal weekend look like for you?
Lots of reading, family and friend time, and exercise, with as much of it spent outdoors as possible.
What song would you sing at karaoke?
That’s a tough call! I can carry a tune, but I never know all the words to anything.
What’s your favorite joke?
Not only can I not remember song lyrics, I also forget all the best jokes. I know, how boring! I promise I’m more fun to be around than I sound.
What’s the most “Portland” thing about you?
I didn’t own a car or microwave until I was over 30 years old, and only then because they were inherited or given to me by relatives. I’ve still never owned a TV. I’m a bike-commuting, plant-eating, coffee-drinking, weekend-hiking Portlander, born and raised!
Call the office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kate, and please give them a hello and a warm welcome when you see them around the office!