Vivienne Meljen, MD
Specialty: OB-GYN.
Years in practice: 4.
Works at: FQHC, Vancouver.
Society memberships: ACOG, AAGL, CCMS.
Why WSMA: To me, the WSMA represents a powerful community
of physicians dedicated to improving health care in Washington state. It
serves as a collective voice for physicians, advocating for policies that
protect our profession, enhance patient care, and ensure that health care
decisions are made by those who truly understand the needs of patients and
physicians. The WSMA is also a space for mentorship, education, and
collaboration— helping to shape the future of medicine while preserving
its core values.
Why serve on WSMA’s board: I wanted to serve on the WSMA
board because I believe in the power of physician-led advocacy to create
meaningful change. Throughout my career, I have witnessed firsthand how
systemic issues impact both patients and health care practitioners. It
affects the smallest and the largest moments in our days and lives. I
wanted to be at the table, helping to drive discussions and solutions that
protect patient access to care, promote physician well-being, and shape
policies that uphold the integrity of our profession. Serving on the board
allows me to contribute to WSMA’s mission in a meaningful way and advocate
for a health care system that prioritizes both clinicians and patients.
Why should physicians lead: Physicians bring a unique,
ethical, and necessary perspective to health care leadership. We are on
the front lines of patient care, experiencing firsthand the challenges and
barriers that exist within the system. When physicians take on leadership
roles, we ensure that medical decisions prioritize patient well-being over
bureaucracy or financial incentives. Physician leadership is crucial in
shaping policies, improving health care delivery, and fostering an
environment where both clinicians and patients can thrive.
How do you help further WSMA’s vision to make Washington state the best
place to practice medicine and receive care:
As a WSMA board member, I work to ensure that Washington remains a state
where both physicians and patients can provide and receive the highest
quality of care, respectively. This includes advocating for policies that
protect access to care, reduce administrative burdens, limit scope creep
to protect patient safety, and ensure fair reimbursement for physicians so
we can keep serving our communities long term.
Fun fact about you: A fun fact about me is that I am a
former certified ski instructor and have a deep love for the mountains. To
this day, I find that time spent in the mountains— whether skiing or
hiking—helps me recharge and maintain balance in my life.