Spectrum News: Doctor on frontline of COVID-19 pandemic and protests

UC infectious disease expert fights for social justice through medicine

Carl Fichtenbaum, MD, of the Division of Infectious Diseases at the UC College of Medicine is one of the leaders of UC's efforts to battle the COVID-19 pandemic. Spectrum News profiled Fichtenbaum, highlighting his mission of social justice through medicine.

A doctor in a lab coat playing a guitar

Carl Fichtenbaum, MD, with his guitar. Photo/Lisa Ventre/UC Creative + Brand

Fichtenbaum says he was heavily influenced by his parents, as they fought against social injustice in the 60s. So being an infectious disease doctor seemed to be the right fit.

“That wanting to help people and wanting to make a difference and so I think that’s what got me interested in infectious diseases," he said.

That’s why during one of the most stressful times in his career, he still made sure to make his voice heard this summer after George Floyd’s death.

“I think it’s very important to speak up whenever you hear about any sort of social injustice. Injustice for one is an injustice for all," he said.

Lead photo Joe Fuqua II/UC Creative + Brand

Impact Lives Here

The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction. Next Lives Here.

Stay up on all UC's COVID-19 stories, read more #UCtheGood content, or take a UC virtual visit and begin picturing yourself at an institution that inspires incredible stories.

Related Stories

Debug Query for this