Pursuing Her Passion Brings ER Doctor Home

Caring for others and feeling connected to her community are two things close to Andrea Parker’s heart. So, after earning her Doctor of Medicine at Wayne State University School of Medicine, Dr. Parker was excited to combine those passions and finally begin her career.

Dr. Parker, MD, returned home to care for her community in July 2020 as an Emergency Room doctor for McKenzie Health System. Despite the ongoing pandemic challenges for those in the healthcare field, she said she is grateful to be doing such difficult, important work close to home.

“I love living near my family, and I like working where I live,” Parker said. “It seems like every day at work I meet someone who knows me or someone in my family. It’s nice to be able to help people right here in our community.”

Parker grew up in Lexington and knew she wanted to remain in the area, where her parents, both sets of grandparents, and brother live. After receiving her Bachelor of Science in biochemistry and molecular biology from Michigan State University and going on to Wayne State University School of Medicine, she knew she wanted to come back home.

She’s excited to be making a difference for her community with McKenzie Health System, and encourages anyone who is interested to pursue their own passion.

“Pursue an education and career you enjoy,” she said. “If you want to work in healthcare, that’s great. But if you want to be a welder or farmer or cosmetologist, that’s great too! I’d also encourage those thinking about healthcare to explore all career options; a doctor is just one member of an extensive healthcare team.”

The healthcare field is challenging – especially amid the coronavirus pandemic – but she said she’s grateful to be on the front lines protecting her neighbors and community members.

As COVID-19 vaccines become available, she encourages everyone to do their part in protecting their community by getting the vaccine when they can.

“I’d urge everyone to get their COVID-19 vaccine when they have the opportunity to do so,” she said “The vaccines are safe and effective, and will save lives. If you are hesitant, please get your questions answered from your doctor or a reliable source such as the CDC (www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines) or MDHHS (www.michigan.gov/COVIDvaccine) websites.”