New USA Health hospitalist volunteers her time and training here and abroad 

By Michelle Ryan
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Kim Phuong Thi Nguyen, D.O., is driven by a purpose, one of giving back to others. The new USA Health hospitalist regularly devotes her time and training to the Vietnamese community and animals.  

“Throughout my time in Vietnam and the U.S, I have volunteered at many temples, churches, clinics, and animal shelters to help the poor, orphans, as well as stray dogs,” she said. 

Nguyen, who is also an assistant professor of internal medicine at the Whiddon College of Medicine, has two doctorates – one earned in traditional Chinese medicine and the other in osteopathic medicine. She also has training as an emergency medical technician and in sonography. 

Though she is many miles away from where she grew up, Nguyen keeps Vietnam and the Vietnamese community close through her service to them.  

“I travel to Vietnam every year to give back to the community, and organize charity events to donate clothing, blankets, and food to homeless people,” said Nguyen, who founded the Duy Kiem Pharmacy charitable organization there. “I have held many free health screening sessions and workshops at the Vietnamese temple and church in Mount Vernon and Bayou La Batre, Alabama.”  

She completed medical school at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine in Old Westbury, New York, followed by an internal medicine residency at USA Health.

“Internal medicine allows me to practice in different settings, such as rural, urban, hospital, and clinic,” she said. “This profession provides me with a general knowledge of a variety of diseases that enable me to care for my family, myself, and the community.” 

Nguyen was drawn to practicing in an academic health system for its ability to serve others through teaching. 

“The academic setting allows me to access advanced technologies, which enable me to provide state-of-the-art care,” she said. “In addition, I will have the privilege to train students and residents, and conduct research.”

In her new role as a hospitalist, she has another opportunity to give back to the community. 

“Growing up in Vietnam, I saw many unfortunate cases end unhappily due to lack of medical knowledge or poverty. Coming to the U.S., I got to know many Vietnamese people who live below the poverty line,” she said. “I am grateful for what life has given me and I want to give back to the community. In the end, it is not about what I have or what I have accomplished, but it is about what I have given back.” 

Nguyen will provide medical care to patients at University Hospital.