Meet Our All Star Medical Team of Black Women!

We are so excited to announce the expansion of our medical advisory team with the addition of three Black women physicians! These esteemed doctors will assist in product development and offer medical advice to the community. 

Meet Dr. Standifer Barrett, Dr. C. Nicole Swiner, and Dr. Chi, MD below!

Dr. Standifer-Barrett, MD  

Now a Board Certified Internist at Ascension Providence Omni Medical, Dr. Standifer-Barrett provides evidence-based care to her patients. She also serves as a Clinical Professor at the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, contributing to the Alumni Board and the admissions committee. With a strong passion for health education, Dr. Standifer-Barrett is committed to empowering individuals to lead healthier lives and prevent illness.

Instagram: @the_drstandiferbarrett

Dr. C. Nicole Swiner

Voted in the Top 10 Best Doctors in North Carolina, Dr. C. Nicole Swiner is a family physician, 7-time best-selling author, speaker, wife and mother in Durham. She is also the owner of Swiner Publishing Company and Serenity Hydration and Wellness. Her passion lies in Minority Health, Women’s Health, Mental Health, DEI and Entrepreneurship. Dr. Swiner speaks nationally and has appeared on news, media, and as a main stage speaker at Essence Fest and Radio One’s Women’s Empowerment. 

Instagram: @realdocswiner

Dr. Chinyere Okpaleke

Dr. Chi is a family medicine physician with a remarkable background in athletics and academia. She is dedicated to promoting health literacy through media outlets and founded Reality Speaks, Inc., a nonprofit supporting underserved communities with initiatives like mental health advocacy and giving back to those in need. Dr. Chi is passionate about empowering others and making a positive impact to help foster growth and resilience.

Instagram: @ask_drchi

Importance of Black Doctors

Black doctors play a crucial role in addressing healthcare disparities that disproportionately affect Black women. Over the years, studies have proven that Black women often receive inadequate diagnoses, less effective treatment, and face higher mortality rates. 

Being seen by a healthcare provider who shares similar life experiences can make a world of difference. By welcoming these physicians to the advisory team, BGV ensures that their community receives the specialized care and support necessary to live healthier lives.