Member of the Month: Cersten Bradley, MD

Before family medicine residency brought her home to Texas, third-year resident Cersten Bradely, MD, studied all over. Her undergrad degree is from Louisiana State University, where she was a student athlete on the Tiger Girls Dance team. From there, she took a couple of gap years, working as a medical assistant and living a “double life,” so she says, as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader. She then began her medical school journey as an IMG in Mexico, completed clinical years in Las Vegas, and is now in residency at UT Health San Antonio. “It’s been a whirlwind,” says Bradley, “but I wouldn’t trade any part of it.”

Who or what inspired you to become a family physician?
I don’t come from a family of doctors, but I was always the nerd of the family, happily diving into my studies. Over time, I developed an addiction to the challenge of learning. What really inspired me to become a family physician was the idea of helping people from all different backgrounds. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be able to make a positive impact in so many lives every day, and I absolutely love it!

What has surprised you most about family medicine?
What has surprised me most about family medicine is just how limitless the field is. The world truly is our oyster! The freedom to practice in diverse ways allows us to tailor our approach to meet the specific needs of our community, which is such a great benefit to the public. It's amazing to see how versatile and impactful we can be as family physicians.

You attended the AAFP Advocacy Summit with TAFP this year. What made you want to learn more about and get involved in advocacy in this way?
I often found myself discussing with faculty how I wished I could wave a magic wand and create real systemic change for our patients. I would vent about issues our patients faced and dream up ways that our schools and laws could fix these recurring problems. Over time, my faculty recognized my interests and suggested I attend the advocacy summit. Boy, were they right! It was an incredible experience to be surrounded by such a passionate, like-minded community and I understand why physicians return year after year. It was a fantastic opportunity to see the real impact we can make through advocacy.

What are your plans for your career?
My career plans are still evolving, and I'm excited about the possibilities. I'm praying and reflecting on where I can best serve the community. I love the versatility of family medicine, and I'm looking forward to finding a path that allows me to make a meaningful impact while enjoying every step of the journey.

Why do you choose to be a TAFP member?
I choose to be a TAFP member because it aligns perfectly with my passion for family medicine and community service. Being part of this vibrant and supportive community is incredible fulfilling. It provides amazing opportunities for learning, networking, and advocacy, all of which help me grow as a physician and make a meaningful impact on patients' lives. Plus, it's a lot of fun being around enthusiastic professionals who share the same goals and values.

What do you enjoy doing outside of medicine?
Outside of medicine, I absolutely love to dance! Whether it's by myself in a gym studio whipping out some new routines or out on the dance floor with live music, it brings me so much joy. I also enjoy mastering new recipes, attending church, and spending time with friends and family exploring new restaurants and local festivities. Life's all about balancing our purpose in a fun way and making the most of every moment.

TAFP’s Member of the Month program highlights Texas family physicians in TAFP News Now and on the TAFP website. We feature a biography and a Q&A with a different TAFP member each month and his or her unique approach to family medicine. If you know an outstanding family physician colleague who you think should be featured as a Member of the Month or if you’d like to tell your own story, nominate yourself or your colleague by contacting TAFP by email at tafp@tafp.org or by phone at (512) 329-8666.