Suzanne ("Suzy") Runkel, our Physician Assistant, has been with France Avenue Family Physicians since 2003. Her goal in practicing medicine is to provide the highest quality health care to a wide variety of patients, while at the same time placing emphasis on patient education and understanding. She desires patients to feel empowered to take steps necessary to modify their lifestyles and prevent future illnesses and harm to their health. She values staying abreast of developments in medicine to provide the best care to her patients.

 

A medical mission to Honduras inspired Suzy to practice medicine. There, she was able to see and appreciate the benefit medicine plays in a person's life. In addition, her passion for people and education added to her underlying desire to play a role in improving health. She found medicine to be the best fit for her and her career path. She has since returned to Honduras as part of medical missions twice, and hopes to continue serving there in the future.

 

Suzy's strengths make her a vital part of France Avenue Family Physicians. She uses her empathy, honesty, and responsibility to understand each patient's situation. She values her patient's right to privacy and will uphold confidentiality with every encounter.

 

In a clinic, there is only so much a provider can do to help in the healing process; the rest is up to the patient. Keeping this in mind, she expects patients to ask questions and also inform her when certain treatment methods are not working. She will work hard to give patients the "tools" they need to manage their health, and in turn, hopes that patients leave with an understanding of how to work towards a healthier lifestyle.