Sisterhood Spotlight

As Medical Director of OB-GYN for Bon Secours Richmond Medical Group, how do you balance clinical leadership with community outreach to address health disparities among women in Central and Southern Virginia?

Community outreach has always been a priority to me, even prior to becoming Medical Director for the market. As a physician, we not only serve as the point person who renders care, but serve as a support to our patients and the community to help them advocate for their healthcare and that of their family and community. As medical director, I can now take back to our hospital administration and then work as an agency to help the community we serve.

You've spoken passionately about building trust with patients through empathy and presence. How do you cultivate that connection in a clinical setting, and why is it essential to outcomes in women’s health?

It might sound cliche, but I try to make sure I “see” my patients. One of reasons for wanting to be a physician is that I always wanted to make sure my patient felt seen and heard. Taking to time to ask about their day, their families, the concerns--health related and non-health related. I believe this makes the patient feel that they are more than just another number on the schedule, but shows them that we care. I try to make my patients feel at ease at each appt--we laugh together, we have cried together, we have prayed together. For me its about treating every patient as if they were a member of the family.

What strategies do you employ to educate and empower adolescents about reproductive health and wellness?

I try to  not lecture at my adolescent patient. I always try to start off by finding out what is their knowledge of the health or wellness concern and from there clarify or correct any misinformation.

I try to help them understand that the healthcare bond we are creating will be one base of trust--I trust that they will be honest with me and I hope they trust I will be honest and caring for them. I tell many of my adolescent patients to think of me of that extended “Auntie” who just happens to be their doctor.

For women striving to be proactive about their health but unsure where to begin, especially in underserved communities, what first steps or local resources do you most often encourage them to seek out?

I believe it starts with seeing their health care provider. I you don’t have a provider, ask others who do they see. Find a provider you trust, be honest and open with your provider, ask questions. Make sure you understand the process, if you don’t, ask more questions.

Attend the community events/ health care--there you will meet many providers who want to make their presence known within the community.

About Dr. Daphne P. Bazile

Known for her compassionate and comprehensive approach, Dr. Daphne P. Bazile focuses on preventative care, chronic disease management, and empowering patients with the knowledge and tools to lead healthier lives. In addition to her clinical practice, she is actively involved in mentoring, community outreach, and initiatives that improve health equity across underserved populations.

Dr. Bazile’s commitment to service and education has made her a trusted voice and a respected leader in Virginia’s healthcare community.