Celebrating Women in Medicine
Each September, the American Medical Association (AMA) celebrates Women in Medicine Month—a time to honor the remarkable achievements and significant contributions of women in the field of healthcare.
Over the past few decades, the presence of women in medicine has grown significantly, transforming the healthcare landscape in powerful and inspiring ways. Today, women make up more than 50% of all U.S. medical school students, nearly 90% of nurse practitioners, and approximately 70% of physician assistants. Their influence spans every specialty, from primary care to surgery, and extends into key leadership roles.
At Munson, we hear directly from our patients that they sometimes prefer to be treated by a female provider. We’re proud that 45% of Munson’s medical staff are women, representing a wide range of specialties and delivering compassionate, expert care to our communities. Our Find A Doctor search tool makes it easy to locate a female provider who is accepting new patients and participates in various insurance plans.
In celebration of Women in Medicine month, we’re proud to spotlight six of our exceptional Munson women physicians, whose commitment, leadership, and excellence continue to elevate healthcare across Northern Michigan.
Highlighting a Few of Our Women Physicians
Lindsay Harden, DO
General Surgery
Otsego Memorial Hospital
“Although my interest in the science of medicine began early in life, it was during college that I came to fully appreciate the importance of human connection and community service in healthcare. Practicing in a rural hospital allows me to combine these values — applying medical knowledge while remaining closely engaged in the community that I love.”
Joanna Heindl, DO
Family Medicine
Munson Medical Center
“Medicine first drew me in because of its altruistic nature — the simple goal of helping people live their best lives. Family Medicine allows me to build long-term relationships and understand patients within the context of their families, cultures, and communities. As a family physician, I serve as a health educator, meeting patients where they are and helping them make informed decisions. I celebrate their victories and support them during times of sorrow. Family Medicine gives me a deep sense of purpose and connection to our community.”
Emily McKerchie, DO
General Surgery
Charlevoix Hospital
“I've always been passionate about working in healthcare. While working in a nursing home as a certified nursing assistant, I realized that my experiences and interactions with the patients had a direct effect on their quality of life. This realization helped fuel my desire to become a physician as I felt it would give me the best opportunity to have the greatest effect on patients’ lives.”
Emily Stevens, MD
Urology
Charlevoix Hospital
“I have never wanted to have another career aside from medicine. Urology is a unique specialty in medicine where you can create a comfortable environment, removing stigma from sensitive topics, and often are able to deliver treatment that improves a patient’s quality of life.”
MaKenzie Tremp, MD
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Cadillac Hospital
“While at my three-year-old well check, I told my mom I wanted to be a doctor. During high school and in my undergrad years, the dream took shape and matured into my passion for women’s health in Obstetrics and Gynecology. I am proud to be a part of the Munson team providing evidence-based and individualized care for women in Northern Michigan.”
Diane Young, MD
Urology
Munson Medical Center
“I chose medicine because caring for my grandfather with Alzheimer’s disease showed me how deeply illness affects not just a patient, but an entire family. That experience made me want to be the kind of physician who supports both healing and humanity.”