Advancing Childhood Cancer Care in San Diego and Beyond
Prebys Leadership Awardee Dr. Paula Aristizabal is a trailblazing pediatric oncologist and physician-scientist, who has dedicated her career to breaking down barriers in pediatric cancer care, ensuring that all children — regardless of background — receive treatments of the highest quality.
She is passionate about improving access to healthcare to all children. One of her most groundbreaking achievements is the establishment of a pediatric oncology program in neighboring Tijuana, where childhood cancer survival has increased five-fold in mere 15 years. This success reflects her deep commitment to community-driven solutions and healthcare access for all.
“We can learn from different communities; each have a lot to teach us. They are so generous with their knowledge, with their time, so generous with their advice. If you are willing to listen, if you are really able to be humble and sit down with them, you’d learn invaluable lessons.”
- Dr. Paula Aristizabal
Community-Centered Innovation
At the core of Dr. Aristizabal’s approach is community engagement and patient-centered care. She recognizes that families are essential partners in the healthcare journey. Her pioneering peer navigation program trains parents of childhood cancer survivors to support families facing a new diagnosis of cancer, ensuring peer guidance and improving access to clinical trials.
Her research uncovers misconceptions that minorities may have towards participation in clinical trials. Dr. Aristizabal has found that Hispanic and African American families that may have mistrust in clinical trials, can easily overcome such hesitation when they are provided with adequate information and support. Her initiatives address different barriers and build trust, ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge treatments.
Leadership and Lasting Impact
As a leader at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego and an Associate Professor at UC San Diego, Dr. Aristizabal is at the forefront of pediatric oncology and health justice research. As Quality Improvement Leader in her division, she tirelessly works to eliminate gaps in access to care, particularly for children with cancer.
Her innovative COMPRENDO (ChildhOod Malignancy Peer REsearch NavigatiOn) program exemplifies her commitment to high-quality care. By offering tailored support through trained parent navigators, COMPRENDO has significantly improved clinical trial participation among families previously hesitant to participate, leading to better health outcomes and improved research access for all children.
Dr. Aristizabal’s work extends beyond San Diego. Her International Outreach Program in Tijuana has been instrumental in improving childhood cancer survival. By fostering cross-border collaboration, she is bringing global attention to the need for comprehensive and outside the box healthcare solutions.
A Legacy of Mentorship and Advocacy
Beyond her clinical and research contributions, Dr. Aristizabal is shaping the future of healthcare by mentoring over 80 professionals from diverse backgrounds. She inspires the next generation to pursue medical research and advocate for justice in medicine.
Whether through her groundbreaking work or her dedication to families and communities, Dr. Aristizabal embodies the values of compassion, unity, and excellence.
Her impact extends far beyond hospital walls — she is a champion for a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of background. Through her leadership, advocacy, and innovation, Dr. Paula Aristizabal is redefining what it means to achieve healthcare justice in pediatric oncology.
