Wellness at Penn has appointed Erika Enk as the new assistant medical director for gender and sexual health. Enk brings valuable experience from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where they worked as a registered nurse and certified nurse-midwife. In their new position, Enk will oversee various aspects of student health, including gynecology, sexual health, and gender-affirming care.
Raymond Cattaneo, the medical director of Student Health and Counseling, praised Enk for their extensive expertise. He emphasized their commitment to providing “inclusive, trauma-informed, student-centered care,” ensuring every student feels respected and supported in their care journey. Enk’s focus on sexual and reproductive health aims to enhance high-quality services by fostering collaboration among practitioners and promoting evidence-based practices.
Enk’s new role reflects a broader effort at Penn to create a more compassionate and accessible healthcare system for students. Their work aims to boost collaboration between Wellness at Penn and campus partners.
Penn offers students two options for insurance coverage: the Penn Student Insurance Plan (PSIP) through Aetna Student Health or an external plan. If you’re studying out of state or abroad, it’s easy to find an in-network provider.
In her previous roles, Enk has delivered training on gender-affirming care and ethical considerations in transgender research. They led the transgender and gender diverse program at UW-Madison and helped establish its Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner program. Enk holds multiple degrees, including a Master’s in Public Health and a Nurse Midwifery certification from the University of Illinois Chicago, along with a Graduate Certificate in LGBT Health Policy and Practice from George Washington University.
Healthcare experts note the importance of having leaders like Enk in campus health to address the diverse needs of students. A recent survey found that 80% of college students reported a need for more inclusive healthcare options. This trend highlights the vital role of proactive administration in improving student health services.
As conversations around inclusivity and mental health grow, Enk’s experience and dedication will likely contribute significantly to a supportive environment at Penn.
