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MSDC Member Profile: Dr. Jill Finkelstein

1. Why do you belong to MSDC? What made you join, and what keeps you engaged?
DC is a unique and complex environment for practicing medicine. MSDC keeps me informed of the legislative and regulatory decisions that affect my day-to-day practice and equips me with practical tools to engage effectively. It lowers the barrier to participation, making it easier for physicians to have a real impact. Equally valuable is the community. MSDC brings together physicians across specialties and practice settings who share common challenges and goals. The emphasis on physician well-being is also very valuable, especially with all the demands of that a career in medicine brings these days.
2. If you could have dinner with any historical figure (medical or otherwise), who would it be and what would you ask them?
I would choose to have dinner with President Barack Obama. I think it would be incredibly insightful and genuinely fun. He comes across as being thoughtful, self-aware, funny, and a great conversationalist. I’d love to talk with him about some of our common interests: college basketball, parenting young children while in a demanding job with atypical hours, DC's dining scene... oh, and affordable healthcare.
3. What's one piece of advice you'd give to a physician just starting their practice in the DC area?
DC’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, and MSDC reflects that. There’s a real opportunity to learn from colleagues with different backgrounds and experiences, which ultimately makes us better physicians. Finally, I strongly believe in giving back to the next generation. With three medical schools in the area, there is a constant need for physician mentors and preceptors. Supporting trainees isn’t just rewarding—it’s essential to the future of our profession. MSDC helps create those connections and reinforces that responsibility.