Santhi Iyer Kumar

Santhi Iyer Kumar, MD, is a Clinical Associate Professor at the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. She serves as Vice Chair for Quality and Safety, Interim Division Chief of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, and Medical Director of Respiratory Services at Arcadia Hospital. Her expertise spans critical care, pulmonary medicine, and internal medicine.

• Education: MD from Drexel University College of Medicine; residency and fellowship at LAC+USC Medical Center

Dr. Kumar’s research focuses on critical care, quality improvement, patient safety, and team science. Her recent publications address topics like hypotension prediction during intubation and psychological safety in clinical teams. She has made significant contributions to understanding obesity-related ICU challenges and sarcoidosis presentations.

Scientific Awards:

• Chief Fellow, Pulmonary/Critical Care Fellowship (2009-2010)
• Resident of the Year Award (2007)
• Phi Eta Sigma Member (2004)
• Dean’s Scholar (2000)

Dr. Kumar maintains active clinical and leadership roles in respiratory care services. Her work bridges clinical practice, medical education, and systems-based quality initiatives.