Associate Professor of Pediatrics, University of Missouri Health Care
Doctor, pediatrician, clinician, advocate, adviser, professor, mentor, researcher, author, Girl Scout troop leader, trails enthusiast, avid recycler, and mom are just a few of the words used to describe Dr. Alexandra James, and not necessarily in that order.
Although this is an impressive list, Alexandra believes laughter is, indeed, good medicine. But the health of her young patients, their families, and the community is something she takes very seriously. Alexandra is a strong and active proponent of educating the community about all aspects of children’s health, from vaccines and access to care, to early assessment of developmental delays, and supporting kids in minority and marginalized populations.
One of the concerns near and dear to Alexandra’s heart is the diagnosis, evaluation, and meeting the needs of children with autism. She is active in a new test program that employs the ECHO Autism STAT Diagnostic Model and has testified before the Missouri legislature on the subject.
“What sets Dr. James apart from other pediatricians is her impact beyond the exam room,” says Dr. Kristin Sohl, professor in MU Health Care’s Department of Child Health and executive director of ECHO Autism. “She has dedicated her career to clinical medicine, advocacy for improving child health policy, and research related to empowering community pediatricians to diagnose and serve autistic children in general practice.”
Alexandra is a true believer in the it-takes-a-village approach to building a healthy community. She treats kids who fall behind through no fault of their own. That pushes her to research disparities that limit access to healthy lives and educates others to identify and intervene to reduce them.
“This type of ‘can do’ spirit sets Dr. James apart from other professionals. She sees barriers to child health and figures out how she can be part of doing more,” Kristin says.
“I credit the village with getting me where I am today,” Alexandra says. “My parents, grandparents, family, friends, teachers, tutors, pets; my children, boyfriends, colleagues, patients.” She adds, “I am motivated by my desire and belief that if each of us leaves our world just even a fraction better than we found it, then what an amazing world it could be.”
Whatever hat Alexandra’s wearing at any given time, it’s a white one.
Age: 39
Fun Fact:
Alexandra is a martial artist who is still flexible enough to do the splits.
