About Me

I was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. While my mother is from Hawaii, I was raised on the East Coast, where my father trained and practiced as a physician. I came back to Hawaii to be closer to family members. I am married to Dr. Bradford Burton, a radiologist here with the Hawaii Permanente Medical Group (HPMG). We have a daughter.

About my practice

As physicians we have a unique opportunity to serve and help those in need, and this is one thing that drew me to a medical career. Health is so precious and when it fails or there are medical problems, people are vulnerable and need assistance. To be able to guide, help, and care for people during this time is very special and rewarding. At HPMG, the patient and his or her needs are paramount. We aim to practice the best medicine possible but always remember that each patient is an individual with individual needs. Compassion and empathy are key to establishing good doctor-patient care. I seek to understand my patients’ medical, psychological, and social needs. I enjoy meeting so many different types of individuals, and having the privilege of getting to know them and learn about their lives. Prior to attending medical school, I earned a PhD in neuroscience. My research in brain disorders such as stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, Huntington’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders made me want to help those suffering from those disorders clinically, rather than through laboratory research. Within HPMG, we all strive to do what is best for the patient medically, and the collegiality of our colleagues is incredible. I am chief of the Neurosciences Division and physician champion for Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke, an in-hospital program developed by the American Heart Association for improving stroke care.

How I thrive

I believe that balancing work and life outside work is important. I try to exercise regularly and eat well. I also appreciate the need to relax and enjoy life. I look forward to being with family and friends, exercising, and traveling.