ABPM Diplomate’s Career Spans Medicine and the Silver Screen
Dr. Catherine “Cat” Roberts, certified by ABPM in Clinical Informatics, has had the unique opportunity to pursue seemingly disparate passions: medicine and acting. By day she diagnoses, analyzes, and intervenes, but off the clock, she transforms into a seasoned actress, taking on roles ranging from a spaceship communications officer to a criminal mastermind.
Her path to a career in medicine began at an early age, kindled by an intense interest in science. “When I was little, I always wished I could look inside people when something was wrong with them,” she says. “It was more than just curiosity – it was an early fascination with the intricate workings of the human body.”
Dr. Roberts’ journey ultimately led her to the subspecialty of Clinical Informatics, which, as she explains, “bridges medicine and technology, allowing me to analyze data, improve patient care, and contribute to medical advancements – it’s the future of healthcare.”
A Christmas gift was the initial spark that ignited her passion for acting. She was given a walk-on role on Star Trek Continues, an award-winning, fan-made continuation of the original Star Trek series. Dr. Roberts’ first on-screen appearance was playing Lieutenant Palmer in episode three, “Fairest of Them All.”
In one of her most recent projects, Dr. Roberts advanced from a supporting cast member to a leading lady. In The Five, a recently released Western, she plays a woman who incites five men to commit a crime. “My supporting actress roles were an honor each time but stepping into the lead felt like stepping onto a new planet. It was a universe unto itself, and I was the captain.”
When it comes to characters she’d love to play, Dr. Roberts names Lieutenant M’Ress of Star Trek, Lady Margot Fenring from the Dune series, Dr. Andrea Cooper from Ben Mezrich’s book, Sex on the Moon, and Virginia Clementine from Rhett Reese’s novel, Anxiety. She says, “These characters’ perspectives, their strength, their struggles – there’s so much depth to explore.”
Despite their seeming incongruity, Dr. Roberts noted that acting and medicine have important connections, saying, “Acting demands empathy, emotional intelligence, and the ability to read people, all skills that translate beautifully into medicine.” Asked if her dual professions influence each other, she replied, “Absolutely! As an actress, I witness diverse emotions and experiences, which enrich my understanding of the practice of medicine. Conversely, medicine keeps me grounded.”
Balancing a full-time medical practice with an acting career requires planning and dedication. “It can be a whirlwind,” Dr. Roberts said, “but the sheer joy of both pursuits fuels my energy.”
For fellow sci-fi-loving physicians, Dr. Roberts offers these recommendations: “The novels written by fellow physicians Michael Crichton and Robin Cook perfectly blend science and suspense. And for pure escapism, the Dune universe is unparalleled.”
In all her pursuits, Dr. Roberts remains committed to excellence. For her, board certification signals her dedication to the highest standards in practice and constant improvement: “Board certification in Clinical Informatics,” she says, “validates my expertise and knowledge, ensuring I offer the best possible care to my patients.”
To other ABPM Diplomates, Dr. Roberts says, “Embrace your passions, whatever they may be. Pursue excellence, both in medicine and beyond. Remember, we’re more than diagnoses and data points – we’re individuals with unique talents and stories to tell. Let’s celebrate that.”