Joanne Amos is an Annapolis native who serves the community where she grew up as a neonatologist in Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center’s NICU. She and her husband, Luis, have three children, Amelia (8), Theo (7) and Oliver (3).
What does your work life look like as a neonatologist in the NICU?
I started my career as a physician assistant in the NICU, then decided to go back to medical school. Now that I am finished training, my life is a little less hectic, and I have time between service blocks. In the mornings, I do deliveries and any procedures, and the afternoon is admissions, more procedures and whatever else needs to be done. Then, I head out for the day and get back to the family.
How did you go into this medical field, and why are you passionate about it?
Growing up, my mom worked with an incredible internist in Annapolis, Dr. Jon Lowe, who happened to be Patch Adams’ roommate in medical school. I loved seeing the strong relationships he built with his patients and the exceptional care he provided — including making house calls when patients were unable to come to his office. I was always inspired by his dedication to his patients and medicine!
How do you balance work life and family life?
It’s chaotic at times and a little bit hectic, but I am lucky in that when I’m not on service, I’m free for the most part. In the week, it works out nicely because if I’m on for a week, I’m often off the following week: I do a “one week on, one week off” type of schedule. That lets me be home with the kids and do summer vacation activities. It can be a little crazy because work can call me in at any time if there’s something going on, and there are some sleep-deprived nights, but all in all, I’m able to balance it.
As a native of the area, what is it like serving the community where you grew up in such a significant way?
I’m really happy with how everything’s worked out. I was actually born in Anne Arundel Medical Center — I’m a twin, so we were the first twins born in the new year. I grew up in the area, and when I went to college, I said, “Oh, I’ll never move back,” but I later decided this is actually where I want to be. It’s always a treat to be out and see some of the babies we’ve taken care of and how they’ve grown into toddlers who are doing well.
Are there ways that working in this field influences your parenting, or ways that being a mom influences your work professionally?
My training in pediatrics and neonatal medicine exposed me to a wide range of medical conditions, but what left the greatest impression on me was the unwavering love, resilience and advocacy of the families I cared for. Watching parents navigate incredibly difficult circumstances has profoundly shaped how I parent my own children.
Professionally, becoming a mom has made me even more empathetic. One of the hardest parts of my job is delivering unexpected news on what should be one of the happiest days of a family’s life — the birth of their child. As both a physician and a parent, I strive to care for families with compassion, honesty and empathy while supporting their individual needs. Parenthood has also given me a deeper appreciation for the everyday moments, reminding me to slow down and enjoy life with my energetic, healthy and happy kids.
When you’re not working, what do you and your family like to do?
Everyone is active. My husband plays hockey, and he coaches the kids. So right now, two of the three kids are playing hockey. My daughter does gymnastics. When we’re not doing sports, we’re usually at a pool or on the boat.
Family Favorites
Movie or TV Show To Watch: “Sing” and “Sing 2”
Meal To Share: Pizza
Place To Vacation: Outer Banks or Disney
Game To Play: Outfoxed
