Her Story
About Kathryn A.
Kathryn is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and an endocrinologist at Massachusetts General Hospital. She is board certified in internal medicine and endocrinology, with clinical and academic expertise in reproductive endocrinology, menopause, menstrual cycle disorders, and polycystic ovary syndrome. Over the course of her career, she has contributed extensively to both patient care and medical education within academic medicine.
In addition to her clinical and teaching roles, Dr. Martin serves as Senior Deputy Editor for Endocrinology and Diabetes at UpToDate, an evidence-based clinical decision support resource used by physicians worldwide. In this capacity, she has contributed to the development and dissemination of high-quality medical content designed to support evidence-based care at the point of service. Her editorial work reflects a long-standing commitment to advancing medical knowledge and improving clinical decision-making.
Kathryn earned her undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College and completed her medical training at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. She completed her residency at Emory University and her fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital, where she has remained on faculty since 1985. Throughout her career, she has delivered more than 900 lectures and has served on national committees, including the American Board of Internal Medicine examination committee and work with the Endocrine Society, contributing to the advancement of endocrinology education and standards of care.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kathryn A.
01What do you attribute your success to?
I worked extremely hard during internship residency fellowship trying to learn as much as I possibly could. When giving lectures I worked harder than my male colleagues to make it perfect because if it wasn't it was a knock against you.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Best advice came from my father who was a physician. It was about respect and listening and following up, just taking good care of others as human beings not just as your patient.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
It is so important for women to find other women mentors. You don't need one mentor you need many different mentors for a satisfying career. Find a clinical mentor, research mentor ideally female, and teaching mentor as those are different skill sets.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Being a woman in medicine is still a big problem. Women get interrupted more, face hostile questions, are paid less, and have harder time getting back on track after maternity leave. You have to be twice as good and twice as productive. Misinformation about menopause from online companies and private equity is a major issue.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty, transparency, and taking care of the patient first. Not finances. Be present, listen to what people are telling you, respond to messages, complete respect. Do no harm.
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