Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1444893
V ictor Moneke, MD, is a board-certified OB-GYN. Originally from Nigeria, Dr. Moneke graduated from medical school at the University of Ibadan, in his home country. He did his residency at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, in London. He also completed a residency in OB-GYN at New York State University, in Buffalo. Why did you choose to practice in the area of OB-GYN? It requires me to maintain a broad range of knowledge in many fields of medicine. The nature of the care is tremendously demanding, both mentally and physically, but there are great rewards. I'm fortunate to take care of patients during some of the happiest days of their lives, and I'm able to support them through some of their most difficult times. What is your philosophy on treating patients? I seek to bring joy to others. I also hope to build a legacy that will benefit my children, grandchildren and beyond. It is so rewarding when you can earn the respect and admiration of friends, business associates and patients. What is your favorite part of your job? I enjoy being able to pass on my wealth of experience to junior doctors in my specialty. I believe obstetrics is an "art" that requires time, sacrifice, dedication and mentorship in order to master it. Are there any new advances in your field you're looking forward to? I'm looking forward to the advances in early detection of ovarian cancer. What do you enjoy doing outside of work? I like soccer and music, especially jazz and religious music. With Dr. Victor Moneke To schedule an appointment with Dr. Moneke, call 760-490- 0592 or sign up for MyChart. He is available for in-person or video appointments and is accepting new patients. Meet Dr. Michael Whitmore M ichael Whitmore, DO, is a board-certified internist with St. Mary High Desert Medical Group. Dr. Whitmore completed medical school at Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, in Glendale, Arizona, in 2017. He performed his residency in internal medicine at Riverside Community Hospital, in Riverside. As an internist, he strives to not only address immediate patient health needs but to simultaneously identify ways to strengthen the patient-physician relationship to achieve sustainable health goals. Dr. Whitmore's areas of expertise are management of multiple chronic medical conditions, preventive medicine and proactive diabetes management. His clinical focus includes cardiovascular disease, rheumatology, COPD, asthma, chronic kidney disease and weight loss. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Whitmore, call 760-241-6666. He is accepting new patients, offering both in-person and video visits. 10 | Health Matters: Providence St. Mary Medical Center