People Profile – Dr. Sabrina Coaxum

Sabrina Coaxum, MD, MHS, (PGY 1; Pediatrics) says that, especially on longer days, her young patients’ humor, honesty, and resilience serve as a positive reminder of the goodness in the world. Dr. Coaxum loves that pediatrics gives her the opportunity to interact with children of all ages—to watch them grow and to celebrate their developmental milestones with them.

Growing up in College Park, Maryland, Dr. Coaxum found herself asking questions and wanting to know more when attending her own or loved ones’ doctors’ appointments. She also noticed a lack of representation of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) in medicine, which further motivated her to pursue a career in the field and, hopefully, serve as a role model for future generations.

Having witnessed firsthand the inequities that exist in healthcare, Dr. Coaxum hopes that the future of medicine in the United States will mean more equitable care for individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, socioeconomic status, or ethnicity. And she hopes to be able to promote this positive change through her own work as a pediatrician.

Dr. Coaxum acknowledges that working in healthcare is a collaborative effort, which is why her top piece of advice for her co-residents is to learn to be okay asking for help. She says that the guidance and teaching of the experienced and approachable attendings at MedStar Health have helped her succeed thus far. “Their support and understanding have helped instill a sense of direction and growing confidence as I progress through my training,” she says.

During her time away from MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Dr. Coaxum says she makes sure to schedule time with friends and family, in advance, so she always has something to look forward to and is making sure to prioritize her own well-being. She also plans at-home spa days once in a while to unwind and pamper herself a bit. Other activities that give Dr. Coaxum a chance to recharge include traveling, puzzling, crocheting, and taking local classes, like cooking or candle-making.