Erica Miller, PA - Siu Physicians & Surgeons Group

Katyann is a Quincy native from a large family – the Obert family of four sisters and three brothers. She was a member of the Blessing Hospital Youth Corps and excelled at math and science in school. Katyann knew healthcare was going to be her future and in college decided to pursue a career as a certified physician assistant (PA). PAs diagnose, monitor and treat patients, making decisions in collaboration with a physician or surgeon. “I really like being part of a team.” Katyann sees her role as an advisor and guide to her patients. “They are the ones who will decide whether or not to take their medicine every day, and whether or not to make the lifestyle changes recommended. I want open communication and for my patient’s to feel heard.” Patients appreciate Katyann’s approach. “My first rotation in college was at a rural family medicine clinic. I completed a visit with a woman when she said to me, ‘Could you please stay and work here? I really enjoyed our visit.’” Then there was Katyann’s first meeting with one of her first patients after earning certification as a physician assistant. “She said that I was the first provider that she felt cared about her. She said I looked her in the eye during the visit and wasn’t staring at the computer the entire time.” “I’m here to interact with patients, to develop a relationship, not just click boxes on my computer,” Katyann said.