Harnett County and surrounding communities now have more access to OB/GYN and women’s health with the addition of Harnett OB/GYN’s newest physician, Dr. Ogochukwu Okpala.

A board-certified physician in obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Okpala completed her undergraduate degree in Biochemistry from McGill University in Canada. She attended a dual medical school degree program at both Dartmouth Medical School and Brown University Medical School. She then pursued a Master’s of Public Health degree from Harvard University. Afterwards she completed her residency at Brigham and Women’s Hospital/ Mass General Hospital at Harvard Medical School in Boston.

She has built a career serving in rural areas to meet the OB/GYN need that many rural communities face. This passion for rural healthcare led her to Harnett Health.

Alongside Dr. Zich, Dr. Okpala has already begun seeing patients. “I am excited to be in Harnett County. Everyone has been really friendly and welcoming,” affirmed Dr. Okpala.

Dr. Okpala is particularly passionate about reducing the percentage of cesarean sections, along with ACOG guidelines, so that there will be fewer number of trial of labor after cesarean sections (TOLACs) or repeat cesarean sections.

“I hope to continue to provide the world class level of OB/GYN care that Harnett County is lucky to have,” said Dr. Okpala. “I think it’s very important to provide this level of care close to home.”

Dr. Okpala was born in Nigeria and grew up in Kenya. She has two daughters, ages six and four.

The public is welcome to meet Dr. Okpala and Dr. Zich during the Harnett OB/GYN ribbon cutting and grand re-opening, presented by the Dunn Chamber of Commerce. The grand re-opening is next Thursday, September 6th at noon. The address is 700 Tilghman Dr. No RSVP is required, and refreshments will be provided.