Kayla Forrester, MD

Dr. Kayla M. Forrester is an internal medicine physician specializing in hospice and palliative care within the Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute. Dr. Forrester completed Internal Medicine residency in 2022 and then Hospice and Palliative Medicine fellowship in 2023 through USF Health Morsani College of Medicine in Tampa, Florida.

Dr. Forrester practices palliative medicine along with an interdisciplinary team which also includes nurse practitioner, psychologist, chaplain, nurse, and medical assistant with the goals of maximizing quality of life. The palliative care team will thoroughly assess the physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of both the patient and family throughout the course of the disease process. Palliative care may also serve as transition to hospice care depending on patient's goals.

Dr. Forrester is the recipient of honors and awards including the Gold Humanism Honor Society award; Honors in Internal Medicine, Surgery and Psychiatry clerkship; and the Academic Achievement scholarship - all from the University of Louisville School of Medicine.

Dr. Forrester's interests include medical education and physician wellness. While completing Internal Medicine residency, she excelled in extracurricular and leadership activities including serving as a coach and mentor to fellow residents. She participated in training sessions that allowed resident physicians to practice advanced care planning, having difficult conversations, and breaking bad news. In addition, she acted as co-chair of the Social and Wellness Committee and participated in the USF Internal Medicine Residency Recruitment Committee.

Dr. Forrester's current professional affiliations include the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, the American College of Physicians, and the Gold Humanism Honor Society.