Her education and experience exemplifies her passion for medicine and athletics. She received her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology at the University of Colorado in 2000. In 2005, she completed her masters of medical science at St. Francis University and became a board certified physician assistant. Between 1998 and 2002 she worked as an athletic trainer for collegiate varsity athletes at the University of Colorado and the University of Washington.
What do you most enjoy about your work?I enjoy sharing in the progressive care that a patient experiences; from their time of injury, through the operative and rehabilitative phases, and finally to their return to activity. The trials and successes that an individual encounters along the “road to recovery” can be tiresome and yet exciting. It is so gratifying to work with each patient to reach their goals and help them return to their particular level of activity.
What is your treatment philosophy?
As a PA, I value the team approach to medicine. The collaboration between PAs, physicians, residents, nurses and other medical staff can dramatically improve the quality of care received by the patient. The interdependent relationship between an experienced, specially trained orthopedic surgeon and PA ensures continuity of patient healthcare, commitment to personalized treatment, and makes certain patients will have greater access to care.
What are your interests outside of medicine?
I enjoy cycling, hiking and skiing. I try to balance my life in medicine with creative pursuits by baking, gardening, sewing, and dabbling in photography.
What is the focus of your teaching efforts?
I feel that a majority of my teaching responsibility is to the patient and their family. Trying to understand an injury and its treatment can be confusing for individuals and being accurately informed allows them to be active participates in their healthcare.
In addition, my goal is to make learning opportunities available and accessible to future and current PA students, medical students, and residents.
What is the focus of your clinical efforts?
My role in the clinic is to extend the care that Dr. Wahl provides and offer a team approach to medicine that is consistent, dependable, and accurate. It is my priority to take the time to address the needs, questions, and concerns that individuals have, especially during the peri-operative time. I strive to be sincerely acquainted with the individual, not just their injury.
Suzanne Slaney’s Contact Information:
UW Sports Medicine Center: (206) 543-1552 or web site.
Eastside Specialty Center (425) 646-7777 or web site.