Nana A. Adu-Amankwa, M.D., known to many patients as "Dr. A" or simply "Dr. Nana," is the physician-owner and medical director of Total Access Pediatric Urgent Care in Rockville. A board-certified pediatrician, she is widely respected for her professional accomplishments, yet she is quick to point out that medicine is only one facet of her life.
"While the practice is a very important part of my life, it's not the only part of my life," she says.
As a physician and community leader, Dr. Nana has built a life centered on service, family and mentorship. She credits her success to strong role models, including her mother, whom she describes as "one of the most hardworking women I know," her sister Bernice, who is also a physician, and a close circle of friends she affectionately calls her "sister friends."
Raised in Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Dr. Nana attended Achimota School in Accra for her secondary education before moving to Washington, D.C., for college. She always knew she wanted to become a physician. After earning a degree in economics from George Washington University, she attended the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She completed her pediatric internship at Howard University Hospital and went on to complete her pediatric residency, chief residency and fellowship training in neonatal and perinatal medicine at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C.
After spending nearly a decade practicing in neonatal intensive care units throughout the region, she recognized a growing need for pediatric urgent care services. Eight years ago, she opened Total Access Pediatric Urgent Care.
Despite the demands of running a medical practice, family remains her highest priority.
"My most important role is as a mother," she says.
Her daughter, a business major at the University of Maryland, and her tween son, who enjoys reading, soccer and video games, have taught her as much as she has taught them.
"In 20 or 30 years, people may not remember the kind of doctor I was," she says. "But they will meet my children. It's important to me that they are kind, hardworking and well-rounded people."
That philosophy extends to her practice as well. She encourages her team to treat every patient as they would want their own loved ones treated.
Motherhood has also broadened her perspective. Through her children's interests and activities, she has gained a deeper appreciation for experiences outside her own. A hands-on mother and her children's biggest cheerleader, she credits a strong support system for helping her family thrive.
"I've created a wonderful village of people who love and support my kids and our family," she says. "I think that's made us all better people."
Her role as a physician often extends beyond the exam room. Because she cares for children over many years, she becomes part of their milestones and celebrations. Families regularly invite her to birthday parties, graduations, sporting events and community gatherings.
"While we see kids when they're sick, I'm interested in their overall well-being," she says. "We don't treat just the child's illness. We treat children in the context of their families."
Outside the office, Dr. Nana serves as her family's travel planner. Together, they have explored destinations across the United States, Africa, Europe and South America. She also loves to cook and jokes that if she were not practicing medicine, she would likely be a professional chef.
Her commitment to nurturing the next generation extends to aspiring health care professionals as well. For several years, Total Access Pediatric Urgent Care has hosted high school interns through Montgomery County Public Schools' Allied Health Professions Program. Students gain firsthand exposure to both the clinical and business sides of medicine.
She also holds a faculty appointment at George Washington University, where she works with premedical students. Mentorship, particularly for young women interested in medicine, is a cause she values deeply.
"I've had several young women from our office go on to medical school," she says. "It's important that they can see someone who looks like them and realize that path is possible."
Despite her many responsibilities, Dr. Nana makes self-care a priority. During the pandemic, she purchased a Peloton bike when gyms closed and developed a regular fitness routine. Today, she participates in Peloton challenges, practices yoga, incorporates strength training, prioritizes annual health screenings and makes sleep a priority.
She also carves out time for herself through spa visits, girls' trips with longtime friends and travel adventures that help her recharge.
Underlying everything she does is a deep faith in God that sustains her personally and professionally. Her family has attended Church of the Redeemer in Gaithersburg for more than two decades, and both of her children have served in its ministries.
"My Christian faith is of paramount importance to me," she says. "God is my source that keeps me going every day."
Whether caring for patients, mentoring future physicians, raising her children or serving her community, Dr. Nana approaches each role with compassion and purpose. Her guiding principle is simple: give back generously.
"To whom much is given, much is required," she says.
For the many families who know her as both a physician and trusted friend, that commitment is evident every day.
"We don't treat just the child's illness. We treat children in the context of their families." - Dr. Adu-Amankwa