Kaela Ward, MD

Where are you from? Originally SoCal but moved 10+ times before completing high school in Flagstaff, Arizona, and then Tucson for undergrad and med school.

What are your personal interests/hobbies? Fitness, hiking, traveling, trying all the coffee shops I can, EDM festivals, hanging out w/friends and family and my aussies, hosting over-the-top themed parties.

What are your professional interests? Integrative health care, ultrasound, medical education, rural health care.

Why did you choose University of Arizona EM? I was lucky enough to work with a South Campus attending early on in my med school career and was continuously blown away by how an attending could be so genuinely invested in the future success of a little EM-aspiring med student. :,) I think this level of dedication from faculty is hard to come by, but I experienced it over and over again with many of the South Campus attendings and residents, which helped solidify my decision. Additionally, I loved the rural health exposure, the medical Spanish curriculum, and just how FUN the doc box was every time I had a South Campus shift (plus the cool lights!). The vibes were just right, as the kids say.

Favorite activity in Tucson, or what attracted you to Tucson besides the residency program? The heat! I’m a lizard and thrive in the sun. But seriously, the food scene here is incredible, the hikes are great and Arizona sunsets will blow your mind.

What are your non-medical goals during residency? Maintain my fitness goals, become besties with my co-residents, stay mindful and appreciative of all the little wins that come with being a resident.