This archive report was first published on 22 May 2020.
One on one with rheumatologist Angela Migowa ¶
Published on May 22, 2020
Dr Angela Migowa is a consultant paediatric rheumatologist at Aga Khan University Hospital, where she is skilled in emergency medicine, public speaking, healthcare management, and leadership. She is also an assistant professor of paediatrics and child health at Aga Khan University.
Dr Migowa is passionate about mentorship, leadership, and research, and has dedicated her career to improving the lives of children suffering from arthritis and related conditions.
However, she notes that the field of paediatric rheumatology is not widely understood, and many misconceptions exist about what it entails. She explains that ordinary rheumatologists cannot treat children, and that the discipline is not considered as lucrative as other medical specialties.
As a result, many children suffering from arthritis and related conditions are subjected to repeated cases of misdiagnosis, prolonged suffering, and deformity in some cases. Dr Migowa attributes this to the hunger for huge profits by hospitals and training institutions, as well as lack of adequate funding to support training in paediatric rheumatology and poor access to training centres.
Dr Migowa also highlights the challenges facing Kenya's healthcare system, including the need for correct and timely diagnoses, which is often hindered by patients being referred late to her clinic. She notes that many parents of children suffering from arthritis do not have the necessary financial resources to cater for clinic visits, investigations, and management.
She also touches on cultural perceptions about paediatric rheumatology, explaining that many societies in Kenya believe that rheumatic diseases are caused by witchcraft or bad omen.
When asked what interests her about paediatrics, Dr Migowa responds that she believes children are the future of our nation, and that investing in their well-being is crucial for their prosperity. She also notes that she loves children because they exhibit pure serenity, gratitude, and authenticity.
Dr Migowa also shares her passion for teaching, explaining that she chose this career because she felt she needed to share the knowledge she received from her teachers, and also to mentor other healthcare providers. She notes that she loves teaching because knowledge is one of the few things that when shared, can multiply exponentially.
When asked to attribute her success to date, Dr Migowa responds that she remembers spending a lot of time reflecting on ways of ensuring that her ambitions were not selfish. She notes that she has learned a lot from experts and mentors in her field, and that she always purposes to build strong networks and engage with those she serves so as to better understand and meet their needs.
Finally, Dr Migowa offers advice to aspiring rheumatologists, telling them to follow their passion, and that their greatness lies in service to others. She encourages them to develop resilience and humility, and to never despair when faced with challenges.
