It's easy to focus on the basics when evaluating your doctor. Did they go to medical school? Are they in your insurance plan's network? Do they have a good reputation with patients and the medical community? These questions are an important part of choosing and building a relationship with your physician, but we also believe knowing more about your physician leads to better communication around your healthcare! At Columbia Surgical Associates we want you to have a familiar face behind the stethoscope, it can make all the difference to your quality of care!
- When did you know you wanted to become a doctor?
I knew I wanted to become a doctor since I was a small child. I appreciated and respected my pediatrician, who cared for my siblings and cousins and had been the pediatrician for my father, aunts and uncles. He was part of our family and always there for his patients.
- Favorite charity and why?
We Can Weekend, a fully funded weekend of events provided for cancer patients who are undergoing or have recently completed radiation treatment and their families. There is no cost to the patients and their families in attendance in the hopes that they can simply enjoy the weekend and time with one another while getting extra education on things such a nutrition and exercise.
- Favorite place to eat in Columbia and favorite menu item?
Andy's Frozen Custard and the triple chocolate concrete!
- Favorite birthday you celebrated and why?
My 30th birthday has been my favorite thus far. I was dreading it for the weeks leading up to it, but my sisters and brother organized a great surprise party with the family, and they got me! What a fun party!
- What's your hidden talent?
I am ambidextrous and can write mirror images, forward and backward, with both hands — in print and cursive.
- First job?
My first job was soccer refereeing for my church league.
- Next bucket list item?
Going to Hawaii.
- Favorite way to spend your free time?
I enjoy going for walks with my husband and dogs as well as gardening.
- Career highlight you are most proud of?
I am most proud of completing my general surgery residency and subsequently achieving my triple board certifications.
- If you could instantly become an expert in something, what would it be?
Flying F-18s.
- First car?
My first car was a light-blue interior and exterior 1986 Plymouth Reliant.
- Where is your happy place?
My happy place is Disney World, specifically Magic Kingdom.
- All-time favorite song and why?
I enjoy turning up the volume every time "Pinball Wizard" comes on the radio and singing at the top of lungs. It's just a catchy song like most rock of the '80s.
- Favorite holiday?
My favorite holiday is the Fourth of July. I love seeing the fireworks light up the sky all night, barbecue and family yard games!
Dr. Jennifer Sanford joined Columbia Surgical Associates in 2018. She is trained in surgical critical care, general surgery, and vascular surgery. Dr. Sanford received her undergraduate and medical education at the University of Missouri- Kansas City, graduating in 2010. She completed her surgical training at UMKC and Saint Louis University, most recently completing her vascular fellowship at Saint Louis University in 2018. Dr. Sanford treats a wide breadth of vascular diseases, however, particularly enjoys dialysis access. She is also passionate about helping patients with exercise programs and smoking cessation assistance.