40 UNDER 40 HONOREES

Sodabeh Etminan

  • Chicago, Illinois

Age:

36

Name of Practice:

University of Illinois in Chicago Hospital Health Sciences System, Mile Square Health Center

Education:

DMD, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine


Why She Was Nominated:

Spurred by her belief that everyone has a right to basic health care, Dr. Etminan is the dental director in the Mile Square Health Center. “We take care of everyone, regardless of their ability to pay, and we’ve been able to have a successful practice.”

Favorite Aspect of Dentistry:

“Helping patients get out of pain. I work at a Federally Qualified Health Center, and many of our patients are uninsured or underinsured. They may lack access to preventive care and come in with urgent conditions.”

Exciting New Trend:

“The increased focus on interdisciplinary care and social determinants of health. It is difficult to see patients in pain with several chronic issues, but an emphasis on systemic problems now means we can prevent some of those cases moving forward.”

Sage Advice:

“Give yourself time to explore different pathways within dentistry. There are many options besides the traditional private practice route. I strongly encourage new graduates to consider the National Health Service Corps to improve their clinical skills while also serving the community without the stress of running a practice.”

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