Let us hear from Ashley!
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I grew up in Jefferson City, Missouri, and from a young age, I loved taking care of others. I was fascinated with the medical field and started volunteering at a hospital at the age of 14. I have worked in a medical office or hospital since the age of 16. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from Truman State University, and then earned a Master of Medical Science degree as a Physician Assistant from Saint Louis University. My first nine years working as a Physician Assistant was in Emergency Medicine. I gained tremendous knowledge and experience, treating all types of patients with acute conditions. After having my first child, I longed to have continuity of care with my patients, and switched to work in Pediatrics. I worked in a Pediatric office the past eight years, where I was able to get to know my patients and their families, and gain a different level of empathy and compassion for patients, while still treating acute and chronic conditions.
I am excited to bring that level of empathy and compassion for patients to Empower Rheumatology. I want to help patients understand their conditions, help them thrive and have the best quality of life they can. I am passionate about medicine, healthy lifestyles, and whole body wellness. I want to build trusting and lasting provider-patient relationships with patients. I am honored and excited to be a part of the Empower Rheumatology team.
My husband and I have two children. We are active in their school, church, sports and other activities, but we make sure to have plenty of family time. We enjoy family trips, going to the lake, camping, biking, having a game or movie night, and making s’mores in the back yard.
I am excited for this new opportunity in Rheumatology and I look forward to getting to know you!
— Ashley Ahring