Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month spotlight: Linh Nguyen, DO

May marks Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, an annual celebration honoring the rich historical and cultural legacies of individuals and groups in the US with Asian and Pacific Islander ancestry. The AAPI umbrella term includes people from the entire Asian continent—including East, Southeast and South Asia—and the Pacific Islands of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia. Throughout history, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have contributed significantly to many facets of American culture and society, including science and medicine, literature and art, sports and recreation, government and politics, and activism and law. This month, we’re recognizing some of our own at UF Health Jacksonville and the UF College of Medicine – Jacksonville, who are a part of the AAPI community making an impact in the health care service they provide.

Linh Nguyen, DO

Pediatric Hospital Medicine Fellow

How long have you been at the College of Medicine – Jacksonville?

About 2 years for my fellowship in pediatric hospital medicine

How has you experience here been and what do you enjoy most about working/learning here?

My experience at the University of Florida College of Medicine - Jacksonville has been very rewarding! The fellowship has cultivated a supportive environment that has allowed me to continue to learn and grow. I enjoy working with a diverse and inclusive group of people that share with me their background and cultures.

Read more about her journey as a fellow here.

What does your AAPI Heritage mean to you?

I am very grateful to have grown up in a Vietnamese family that has instilled the importance of our culture and community. My Asian heritage continues to play a huge role in who I am today as a person and physician.

How is your heritage reflected in your day-to-day with work and other activities?

Being from a family that struggles with language barriers and health literacy, I always try to spend extra time communicating, answering questions, and ensuring understanding with these families. One of my goals as a physician is to encourage a unified team to serve our families and the community.