It’s National Physician Assistant (PA) Week! In recognition, we’re honoring our amazing group of PAs and the essential services they provide to our patients on a daily basis. We appreciate all that you all do to keep our communities informed, happy, and healthy!
The theme of this year’s National PA week is “PAs are essential” and we couldn’t agree more. As the American Academy of PAs’ website states: “During this challenging time, PAs have not only proven themselves as flexible, adaptable, and collaborative – but also ESSENTIAL. Essential to healthcare. Essential to patients.”
Join us in our celebration by getting to know more about our PAs and their thoughts on what makes them most proud to be a PA and why they’re passionate about providing their services at a sexual health clinic.
Gladys, Physician Assistant
My name is Gladys and my pronouns are she/her/hers. My college education began with me receiving my Bachelors of Science degree in Human Development and Family Sciences at the University of Texas at Austin followed by me attaining my Masters in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Texas-Pan American in Edinburg, TX. Since then, I have been practicing as a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) for 5 years plus with a background in Primary Care, Urgent Care, and Occupational Health Medicine. Being a PA-C has been arduous and rewarding but I love the profession immensely along with the ability to be fluid across all specialties. In effect, in July 2020, I transitioned into the field of sexual health and gender affirming care by accepting a position as a PA-C with Texas Health Action’s Kind Clinic. I deem sexual health clinics, like Kind Clinic, crucial to all communities, eradicating taboo in the realms of sex and gender; thus, fostering a safe and educative haven for all. I’m thrilled to be a part of this particular team.
Angela, Physician Assistant
My name is Angela, pronouns she/her/hers, and I have been at Kind Clinic since July 2019. I graduated from St. Edward’s University here in Austin for my undergraduate degree, and then attended University of North Texas Health Science Center for graduate school. I became a PA to care for patients and communities not well served by our health care system. At Kind, I work with a team dedicated to serving and empowering our patients to take charge of their health without stigma. I love building relationships with patients in a setting that allows us to talk about anything and everything, without embarrassment or shame. I am proud to be a PA that provides affirming, compassionate care for everyone, regardless of their background, history, orientation or status.
Staci, Physician Assistant
My name is Staci, pronouns she/her/hers, and I joined Kind Clinic as a PA-C in July 2020. I graduated from The University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth, TX. The best part about being a PA is having the opportunity to make a positive change in a person’s life. I love talking to my patients and making them feel comfortable, while also providing them excellent care. It is so rewarding to work for an organization that truly cares about making a difference in the community. Kind Clinic strives for excellence, total inclusion and respect for all and these values are very important to me. I love helping others, especially the LGBTQIA+ community, and I am so happy to be here!
