Jessica Faith Powers, MD

The best part of my day is the time I spend in clinic or in the hospital talking with patients. That relationship is important to me. I want to develop trust and get to know them, hear their concerns and answer their questions.

Cancer care has really evolved to be more individualized. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment. That's why I like to know my patients and understand who they are and to understand their disease so the treatment fits that individual. I will always be very honest and complete in the information I share. I don't sugar coat things and I think that's important as an oncologist. I think we do a disservice if we over promise with the things we can do, so I am realistic. I am optimistic and compassionate, but I am honest.

I knew I wanted to be a doctor from a young age. My mom was the first person in her family to go to college. She got her Master's in education and she always encouraged my brother and me to shoot for the stars. She told us that education would provide opportunities. I loved the sciences and I excelled in school, so I pursued medicine in college and got a scholarship through the U. S. Air Force that helped to put me on the path I dreamed of.

My education didn't end with college, however. I consider myself a lifelong learner. In hematology and oncology there are constantly new research-driven drugs developed. I make a concerted effort to attend conferences and stay up to date on the most current treatment options. It is exciting to convey those wonderful therapies to patients, change their lives, and make a meaningful difference.

I see my role as helping to educate the patient and helping them navigate their situation, guiding them through to help them make the best decision for them. Knowing their goals is imperative to making the right decision - whether that will be aggressive chemotherapy, hospice care, or anything in between. I like being by their side regardless of what choices they make for their care.

When I am not working, I love spending time with my three wonderful children. I am a happy and motivated mother and enjoy my time with them. I am also a very outdoorsy person, thanks to my Dad's influence. I enjoy hiking, I'm learning to surf, I enjoy nature photography and do a lot of gardening. That's why I like Northern California and decided to stay here after serving 8 years at David Grant Medical Center on Travis Air Force Base.

Physician Practice Organization

NorthBay Health