Women's History Month Spotlight: Angela Bohnen, MD

According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC),?women comprise only 37% of all active physicians. The numbers are much lower in some specialties.

Angela Bohnen, MD, is a neurosurgeon at AdventHealth Littleton. According to the AAMC, only ten percent of neurosurgeons are women. Dr. Bohnen specializes in treating primary brain tumors and performs complex brain surgeries.

“I’ve always had a passion for helping people through difficult situations,” said Dr. Bohnen. “I love breaking complexities down into more simple concepts that people can understand, along with educating patients so they can make the best-informed decisions for themselves.”

Dr. Bohnen completed her neurosurgical residency at Northwestern University and a neuro-oncology fellowship at the Mayo Clinic. She says being a woman in the field hasn’t been without its challenges.

“Stereotypes die hard. I still get asked if I’m the surgeon and get called a nurse. I also look young, so patients question me. There is definitely a difference in the level to which I am heard and the gravity to which my opinion is taken. I have had to learn to advocate for myself,” said Dr. Bohnen. “One reason I love AdventHealth Littleton is they recognize the value of female leaders and support our involvement.”

Dr. Bohnen offers this advice to young women interested in pursuing a career in medicine.

“Be aware and proud of your differences. Regardless of sex, we all have something different to offer. As females, we tend to be more empathetic, better listeners, and pay attention to different details than men. Multiple studies have now been published recognizing this. Wear yourself proud.”