Leading With Compassion and an Innovative Mindset: A conversation with Hoag OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Karamardian
Lisa M. Karamardian, MD, FACOG, Jeffrey M. Carlton Endowed Chair in Women’s Health, in honor of Dr. Anne M. Kent, has spent more than 25 years as one of Hoag’s beloved OB/GYNs. Below, she shares some of her favorite moments as a physician, her inspirations, and advice for those embarking on a similar path in medicine.
Can you share what inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
From an early age, I was fascinated by medicine and the ability to make a tangible impact on people’s lives. I witnessed my mother’s gynecologist as he interacted with my family after operating on my mom when I was a young teenager, and I said to myself “I want to be that person walking into the waiting room and providing hope and information to families!” I was drawn to the idea of being both a scientist and a compassionate caregiver. My love for problem-solving, coupled with a strong desire to serve others, made medicine feel like a natural path. Over time, that calling only grew stronger, especially as I saw how much of a difference a kind word, or an accurate diagnosis could make in someone’s life.
What do you enjoy most about practicing at Hoag?
Hoag is a truly special place to practice medicine. The collaborative environment, the dedication to innovation, and the commitment to providing world-class care are unmatched. But most of all, it’s the people—our patients, our staff, and our physician community. I’m constantly inspired by the excellence and compassion I see every day. There’s a shared sense of purpose here that fuels everything we do.
Can you share a memorable moment or patient story that reaffirmed your passion for medicine?
There are so many moments that stand out, but one that stays with me is a young patient who was diagnosed with breast cancer early on in her second pregnancy, turning her into a very high-risk pregnancy. Her journey was complex, but through teamwork, persistence, and the incredible skill of our care teams, we were able to guide her safely through treatment and on to delivery. Holding her baby in her arms brought tears to all our eyes. It reminded me of why I do what I do—being part of those life-changing, hope-filled moments is an incredible privilege.
What progress have you seen for women in medicine over the years, and what changes would you still like to see?
There’s been remarkable progress in terms of representation and leadership—more women are entering medicine, and we’re beginning to see stronger female voices at the decision-making table. I’m proud of the fact that Hoag had 19 endowed chairs at the time I received mine. A hallmark of academic institutions, endowed chairs are rare in the community hospital setting. These philanthropically funded positions provide Hoag physician leaders with funds to support innovative programs, research, technology, education and more. I was the third woman to hold one. That’s encouraging. However, we still have work to do, especially when it comes to mentorship, and creating structures that support work-life integration for women at all stages of their careers. Hoag is at the forefront of institutional support for women rising into leadership roles. How amazing is it that our new Hoag Hospital Foundation President is Caroline A. Pereira, our Senior VP is Teresa Conk, and Dr. Patty Huanghad served as our Chief of Staff? These women are making huge strides for women in medicine and providing incredible support on all levels.
Are there any upcoming innovations or programs within the institute that you’re excited to share
Absolutely. We’re expanding our focus on personalized care in labor and delivery—integrating data, technology, and patient-centered approaches to improve outcomes. I’ve spent my endowed chair dollars and have garnered more financial support from Hoag Innovators, a group of philanthropists, entrepreneurs and community leaders who are dedicated to catalyzing innovation at Hoag through philanthropic investments, to purchase AI technology called PeriGen toassist in this process. We’re also investing in education and outreach, ensuring patients have access to the latest advancements in women’s health through the Nona app, a wonderful tool for navigating pregnancy and new motherhood, as well as other digital tools. One program I’m especially excited about is our Hoag Menopause Program, an interdisciplinary collaboration across specialties to provide comprehensive, seamless care for women as they transition into menopause. This program will bring together subspecialists from gynecology, dermatology, cardiology, rheumatology, endocrinology, sports medicine, breast surgeons and more.
Who are the women that have influenced or inspired you the most in your journey?
I’ve been fortunate to have several incredible mentors—some were professors, my colleagues, and many were patients. My mother is a tremendous influence—she models perseverance and compassion every day. Professionally, I’ve drawn a lot of inspiration from women who broke barriers before me and created paths where none existed. Dr. Stephanie McClellan continues to provide mentorship, and I am grateful to her for her passionate fundraising that built the Sue & Bill Gross Women’s Pavilion at Hoag Newport. I’m also grateful to Dr. Anne Kent, whose career at Hoag inspired the Jeffrey M. Carlton Foundation to donate and endow the chair that I currently hold in women’s health. The dedication they modeled continues to motivate me.
What is one piece of wisdom or encouragement you would share with the next generation of female physicians?
Trust your voice. Your perspective, your empathy, and your dedication are powerful. Don’t be afraid to take up space, to lead, to question the status quo, and to support one another. Medicine needs your brilliance—and there is room for you to lead in a way that’s authentic to who you are. Most importantly, learn from your patients. The lessons they teach us and the bonds we are blessed to form with them are priceless.