Get to know new primary-care doc Sophia Chun

by Carson J. Blomquist

OptumCare

The Health Care Center is excited to welcome Dr. Sophia Chun to the primary-care team. Dr. Chun views health as a team effort. “The primary responsibility of a doctor is to listen and develop a deep understanding of what concerns the patient,” she says. “I’m here to help my patients understand we’re on the same team. As a team, I want to assure the patient we will be able to come up with a plan that will lead to greater health and wellbeing.”

Dr. Chun recently shared some of her life experiences with us.

Where did you grow up?

Dr. Chun: My family moved here from South Korea when I was 8 years old. I’ve lived in Southern California since, attending Long Beach Poly High, where I advanced to the rank of captain in the Army Reserve Officer Training Corp.

Why did you pursue medicine?

Dr. Chun: It wasn’t in my original plans! I studied psychobiology and East Asian languages at the University of Southern California. During my junior year, I was able to work alongside emergency room interns and residents at Los Angeles County Hospital. With the encouragement of my professors and some life events, I decided to bring my love of science and humanity together in a manner that would help people in the most direct and impactful way. I believed medicine would help me grow in understanding and sharing compassion with others.

Where did you go to school?

Dr. Chun: I was accepted to USC and Loma Linda University for medical school. I decided on Loma Linda University because I was very impressed with the holistic whole approach to medicine, which included not only the body and mind, but also the spiritual aspect of a person. It was there that I completed my double residency in internal medicine and physical medicine and rehabilitation.

What do you like to do outside the office?

Dr. Chun: I enjoy spending time with my lovely family. I love reading books, organizing my lovely home and trying new recipes I find online. I also enjoy spending time with my two wonderful dogs, Davy and Chloe. I have been too busy to develop a real hobby, but in the future, I would like to take guitar lessons, play tennis and go camping.

Dr. Chun is fluent in English and speaks Korean, and she is available for new patients. To make an appointment with her at the Health Care Center, call (562) 493-9581.