Elizabeth Harrington , MD, MPH

Why did you decide to pursue a career in OB/GYN?

My clinical and research interests around global reproductive health and rights, family planning, safe motherhood, and care for underserved individuals aligned well in the field. Apart from that, I love taking care of patients, and the incredible variety of medicine and surgery in OB/GYN.

What do you like about working at UW Medicine?

I love working in an environment where asking questions is encouraged, and where the expectation is evidence-based medicine. Our students and residents are a privilege to work with, and their curiosity and dedication challenge me to keep learning with humility.

What are your favorite things about living in the Seattle area?

My favorite things about living in Seattle are: being able to be near water most of the time, that there is no shortage of beautiful places to explore in the mountains, and my family’s community of old and new friends here.

What inspires you?

My patients—their strength, vulnerability, and resilience—continually surprise and inspire me. I am inspired by people who speak out against injustice, including racism, xenophobia, sexism and reproductive rights restrictions. My global health research colleagues, and those who go to work every day in resource-limited environments to do their best by the patients who need them, inspire me as well.