Maria Paola Santos, MD

She/her/hers/ella

What is your hometown?

Marietta, Georgia, and born in Bogota, Colombia

What are your career goals?

I hope to work with marginalized groups and find ways to make healthcare more equitable and accessible in the community that I practice. It is my hope be able to provide broad-spectrum care and tailor my skills and services to meet the needs of the communities I am a part of. Further, I hope to work in developing and supporting pipeline programs for minoritized students, continue patient advocacy through policy, and learn how to lead in healthcare on a population level.

What attracted you to the Duke Family Medicine Residency Program?

I attended an informational session about the residency program the summer before applying to residency and it was clear that the residency's mission and values lined up with mine. As I developed more connections with current faculty and residents, I knew this was the perfect place for me.

In your opinion, what makes Duke Family Medicine special?

There are many things that make this program special but the one that stands out to me the most is its commitment to action and not just empty words. I have been so impressed with the intentionality behind all initiatives and commitment to healthcare equity and diversity. This is a place that is committed to growth and does not shy away from the challenges that may entail.

What strengths or skills do you have that could be of benefit to the community?

I love getting to know people and what makes life worth living for them. I really enjoy using these connections with patients to empower them to partner with me as we work on their health outcomes. I am fluent in Spanish and love working with Spanish-speaking patients and providing language-competent care. Lastly, I approach every patient with respect, open-mindedness, and commitment to high quality care.

What are you passionate about?

I am really passionate about anti-racism work in medicine, LGBTQ+ care, addiction medicine, and procedures. I want to create a more inclusive space for any marginalized group. I hope to do this in a variety of ways and look forward to exploring the possibilities while at Duke!

What are your hobbies outside of work?

I love spending time outdoors (hiking, camping, kayaking) as much as I love a Netflix movie marathon day. I recently have started to learn how to cook a little better and hope to improve this over the next few years. Last, you can find me at music festivals and listening to local bands!

If you have lived in the area for awhile, what is the best part of living in the Durham/Triangle area?

I haven't lived here long but I love the food here! There are also great places to hang out such as breweries, parks, and it is not hard to find local music. The heat is no joke but I'll take it over chilly Michigan winters!

What is something interesting that not many people know about you?

I recently learned how to play the mandolin. Also, I want to go on Survivor (and win) one day!

So far, what has surprised you most about Duke?

The people are incredible. I feel humbled every day to be around such incredible physicians (my class included). Everyone genuinely cares about you and your personal and professional development here and it's a great community to be a part of! I can't imagine training anywhere else!

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