We welcomed Carla Russo, MD, to the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Childbirth Center team of providers in 2019. Dr. Russo is no stranger to the Bellingham community. After working in Bellingham’s PeaceHealth Medical Group Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) clinic, she most recently cared for patients down the street at Bellingham Obstetrics and Gynecologists (BOGA). She feels at home in the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Childbirth Center. Dr. Russo has medical interests in obesity in pregnancy and utilizing systems-based practice to reduce medical errors and injury. “I like to work closely with patients to really listen to their concerns and goals, so they feel comfortable with the care provided. I believe in empowering patients to be active participants in their healthcare journey," she said. Dr. Russo has a substantial research, presentation and publication base, including topics such as: obesity in pregnancy; excess mortality in patients with medical injuries due to healthcare or underlying illness; and adnexal masses in adolescent, premenopausal and post-menopausal women. Dr. Russo is a spin enthusiast. Outside of the clinical setting, she enjoys camping and spending time with her husband and two sons, baking and learning new things.