Every woman deserves access to compassionate, high-quality healthcare throughout every stage of her life. Ensuring that access for future generations requires investing in care today, and in the physicians who will serve tomorrow.
That's the vision behind Ascension Wisconsin's new obstetrics and gynecology (OB-GYN) residency program at Ascension St. Joseph Hospital in Milwaukee. Led by Dr. Amy Tamburrino, an experienced OB/GYN at Ascension Wisconsin, the program is developing the next generation of women's health physicians while creating a stronger foundation for access to care in the Milwaukee community.
With more than 20 years of experience practicing obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Tamburrino understands the importance of preparing physicians to meet the evolving healthcare needs of women and families. She recognizes that physicians often establish their careers in the communities where they complete their residency training, making local medical education an important investment in the future of healthcare.
"This residency program reflects Ascension Wisconsin's commitment to clinical excellence, compassionate care, and developing the physician workforce our communities need," said Dr. Tamburrino. "We're preparing physicians who are not just clinically outstanding, but are committed to serving diverse and underserved populations with dignity, compassion, and respect."
The program recently welcomed its inaugural class of three residents: Dr. Olivia Morrissey, Dr. Robin Peterson and Dr. Hannah Jackson. Over the course of their four-year residency, they will gain comprehensive clinical experience alongside experienced OB-GYN physicians throughout Ascension Wisconsin.
For the residents, choosing obstetrics and gynecology means having the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with patients and make a difference during some of life's most significant moments.
"It's so special to be able to be there for the big moments of women's lives. It’s such a privilege," said Dr. Morrissey.
OB-GYN is a unique specialty that combines preventive medicine, primary care, surgery, emergency care, pregnancy and childbirth. Physicians care for women throughout every stage of life, from adolescence and family planning to pregnancy, menopause and beyond. The specialty offers opportunities to support patients through joyful milestones while also providing critical care during challenging and sometimes life-threatening situations.
Dr. Peterson said she was drawn to the specialty because of the opportunity to make a lifelong impact on patients and their families.
"I think we're all really dedicated to creating a culture that's very inclusive and really service driven," said Dr. Peterson. "I don't think I could have picked two better co-residents to start this with."
The program also creates additional opportunities for medical school graduates to pursue residency training and develop their skills in a collaborative clinical environment. Residents learn alongside experienced physicians, bringing current medical knowledge and evidence-based practices into patient care.
For Dr. Jackson, being part of the inaugural class means contributing to something that will have a lasting impact on the community.
"Really, Ascension Wisconsin is part of the solution to workforce challenges and OB-GYN shortages because they’ve started a new residency program," said Dr. Jackson.
Ascension Wisconsin plans to expand the program over time, with the goal of training additional OB-GYN physicians who can serve women and families throughout the region.
The investment is especially meaningful in high-need areas of Milwaukee, where access to comprehensive women's healthcare is essential. Growing the number of physicians trained in the community can help strengthen access to prenatal care, labor and delivery, preventive screenings, gynecologic services and specialized care.
The OB-GYN residency program is part of Ascension Wisconsin's broader commitment to medical education and developing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Through residency programs in multiple specialties, Ascension is investing in physicians who will bring clinical excellence, compassion and a commitment to service to the communities they serve.
For Dr. Tamburrino, the program represents an opportunity to make a difference that extends well beyond the patients she cares for today.
By preparing the next generation of OB-GYN physicians, Ascension Wisconsin is helping ensure women and families have access to exceptional healthcare close to home, today and for generations to come.
