Jennifer Saenz, DO, MPH
Jennifer Saenz, DO, MPH, brings a wealth of experience and an innovative leadership style to the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians (AOBFP). Her journey with the board began in 2016 as a dedicated OMT examiner, and her passion for shaping the future of certification quickly set her apart. In 2022, she made history as the board’s first Young Physician Observer, and by 2024, she stepped into the role of Director in Training—further solidifying her influence in osteopathic family medicine.
One of Dr. Saenz’s most impactful contributions has been contributing to the shift from high-stakes exams to a longitudinal assessment model for maintaining certification. This groundbreaking initiative has transformed the experience for diplomates, with an overwhelming 92% reporting reduced stress related to MOC. By prioritizing continuous learning while alleviating unnecessary burdens, she and the board are taking meaningful steps to combat physician burnout and enhance professional growth.
Beyond her leadership at AOBFP, Dr. Saenz’s academic and professional journey is nothing short of inspiring. A first-generation college graduate, she has continuously expanded her expertise and earned a master’s in public health and a diploma in international medicine and public health. Her medical training at A.T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, followed by residency at Memorial Hospital in York, Pennsylvania, set the foundation for a dynamic career spanning attending and faculty roles. Today, she serves at Mass General Brigham in the Boston metro area, where she remains deeply committed to patient care and medical education.
Dr. Saenz’s dedication extends far beyond the clinic. A passionate advocate for children, she has been honored with the President’s Volunteer Service Award for her contributions. As a parent, she draws inspiration from her own family to champion inclusivity and accessibility in health care. She actively collaborates with the Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group and contributes to research on the intersection of Down Syndrome and Cortical/Cerebral Visual Impairment. To further connect with diverse communities, she has also embraced American Sign Language (ASL), reinforcing her commitment to breaking communication barriers in medicine.
With her visionary leadership, unwavering advocacy, and relentless drive to improve the physician’s experience, Dr. Saenz is an invaluable asset to AOBFP and the medical community at large. Her work continues to shape the future of osteopathic family medicine—one initiative, one patient, and one groundbreaking idea at a time.