The Person Behind the Nametag - June 2008

Dr. Archana Kulkarni
Director of Medical Affairs

Each month, “The Person Behind the Nametag’’ introduces you to a Westside Family Health Center Team Member. (Click here to read about others.)

June 2008 features Dr. Archana Kulkarni, who has been our staff physician for seven years. She sees all patients but has a particular interest in chronic diseases and conditions including diabetes and obesity. One day a patient came to the clinic and sheepishly asked if the doctor was in. When she was told yes, the patient ’fessed up that she hadn’t stayed on the straight and narrow diet-wise, and was hoping to avoid the doctor. Our compassionate WFHC team member replied, “You’re on your own, sister. Dr. K is riding me, too!’’

People who know you would be surprised to hear: I’m a feminist.

Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life? My father.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were younger? The importance of physical health. No one thought anything about exercise and the importance of a good diet when I was young.

Are you a morning person or a night person? Morning.

Spinach or broccoli? Spinach with cheese, garlic and red chili. The Indian way.

What’s the last movie you saw? Michael Clayton.

Thumbs up or thumbs down? Thumbs down. It really wasn’t that great. Why was it nominated?

What keeps you awake at night? Awake? I’m so tired at night. Nothing keeps me awake.

What do you love about your job? I love being a physician. I wanted to become one from a child. I saw my two uncles, they were doctors. I wanted to help patients from age 7. I like the involvement with patients. I’m a little strict with patients, but I feel they want to work together to improve their health.

What concerns you most about the state of health care today? That the government is pulling out of health care and there is no health care for people who most need it and people aren’t taking care of themselves because of too much food available in this country compared to the rest of the world.

What do you consider your most admirable quality? I’m a good mother. I raised my three daughters well.

What do you hope to do that you haven’t done yet? To travel a little more. Travel, that’s what I love. We’re adventurous. Peru, Tibet. I like historical trips more than just looking at the scenery.

What’s the best thing about L.A.? The weather.

What’s the worst thing about L.A.? The traffic and the pollution.

What’s your least favorite household chore? The floors, vacuuming, bathroom cleaning…is that enough? I can name more.

Always in your fridge: Milk.

Favorite food: Indian.

What was your last impulse buy? I’m not an impulse buyer, but my husband is.

Describe your perfect day. Swimming.

What’s the best gift you ever received? On my 50th birthday my daughters had a surprise lunch for me.