Kristie Obranovich, P.A.-C., Certified Physician Assistant, graduated Magna Cum Laude from The University of Alabama at Birmingham Surgical Physician Assistant Program. She earned her undergraduate degree in three years from Lee University in Tennessee where she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Health Science.
Kristie is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She is licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners and a member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, the American Academy of Physician Assistants, and the Texas Association of Physician Assistants.
As a Physician Assistant who has received specialized training in dermatology, Kristie is licensed and qualified to perform a comprehensive dermatological examination, diagnose, treat, and prescribe appropriate medical therapy for all dermatologic needs. She is skilled in performing procedures that include shave biopsies, punch biopsies, cryotherapy, and sclerotherapy. Since joining Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in 2007 she continues to expand her knowledge base through frequent Continuing Medical Education conferences.
What is a Physician Assistant?
A physician assistant (PA) is a health professional licensed by the state or credentialed by a federal employer to practice medicine as delegated by and with the supervision of a physician. PA’s provide a broad range of medical and surgical services that traditionally have been performed by physicians. As part of their responsibilities, PA’s perform physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret lab tests, suture lacerations, and (in most states, including Texas) prescribe medications.
Physician assistants are trained in medicine, just like physicians, and in some programs PA’s attend many of the same classes as medical students. Some of the major differences in a physician’s education and a PA’s education are the amount of time spent in their formal education and that PA’s are not required to undertake an internship or residency.
A PA-C is a “physician assistant-certified”. This person holds the title by passing the certification exam developed jointly by the National Board of Medical Examiners and the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. To maintain the certified status, a PA-C must complete 100 hours of continuing medical education every two years and take the national recertification exam every six years.
Here’s What Some of Our Patients Are Saying About Kristie
- “Everyone was so friendly and responsive. I had to nurse by 2 month baby and the office was so accommodating allowing me access to a room to nurse privately in before my appointment started. I really appreciated their kind and polite response to my needs. Plus Kristie was great. She answered all of my questions and I walked out of the appointment satisfied with my visit. Definitely would recommend and go back!” — Martha G.
- “Kristie is wonderful and I have recommended her several times to friends.” — Brandice D.
- “I’ve seen Kristie twice now and really enjoyed visiting with a [provider] who I feel takes the time to listen to me and helps with realistic solutions and advice. I’d been to a few dermatologists before now and I always felt rushed and as if no one was really listening to me.” — Nena B.
- “I consistently have a great experience at Westlake Dermatology – specifically with Dr. Rhodes and Kristie Obranovich. They are both very thorough and personable yet extremely professional.” — Leigh Z.
