Traci L. Wilkinson, PA-C

Whether working with a surgical team or making connections with patients, Traci Wilkinson, PA-C, loves being a part of the Methodist Physicians Clinic cardiothoracic surgery staff.

"My passion is working in the operating room," the physician assistant said. "I'm so grateful for my previous experiences because the skills and knowledge I acquired help me provide the best care for my patients."

She has experience with general, vascular, bariatric, plastic and reconstructive surgery, as well as urogynecology. She strives to offer compassionate, individualized care to patients with cardiac and thoracic conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart valve pathologies and lung cancers. Her work starts with forming relationships built on honest communication.

"I love being able to provide patient education, which is the key to helping patients make well-informed decisions about their health care needs," she said. "I want them to know that they are always welcome to ask questions and understand that we are a team when it comes to their health."

Seeing the life-changing difference they can make together is yet another reminder that she loves her work.

"Being part of potentially one of the biggest days in our patients' lives is something I don't take for granted," she said. "I'm always so proud of them when they tell me they've committed themselves to making lifestyle changes and are excited about their future after surgery."

When she's not working, she and her husband, both natives of McCook, Nebraska, enjoy attending their two children's sporting events and activities. As a working mom in a busy practice, she also finds value in self-care and uses her free time to design tablescapes, party plan, bake, read and take part in her favorite fitness classes: dance, spin and yoga.