Dr. Elizabeth Helmer is a wound healing doctor that uses surgery, wound healing and hyperbaric treatment options to treat wounds that are difficult to heal such as burns and foot ulcers because of diabetes.
For patients that need these types of treatments, Dr. Helmer understands it is important to listen to her patients so she can understand their goals.
"For some patients, their goal is to heal, while for others it is comfort," Dr. Helmer said. "It is important to understand what is a success for them so we can work together to meet that goal."
She was originally interested in burn and general surgery, which evolved into an interest in healing wounds. Her favorite part is being able use her experience as a general surgeon to be able to operate and fix a chronic ailment.
Dr. Helmer completed her residency in general surgery at Mercer University School of Medicine in Savannah, Georgia and her fellowship in burn at the University of California-San Diego.
She is originally from Michigan, so she has enjoyed living in a rural community.
"I love northern Wisconsin because of its small-town atmosphere," Dr. Helmer said. "I am excited that I get to live in this area, while also being able to help those that need wound healing."
Dr. Helmer and her wife enjoy tending to their apple trees and making cider. They also like playing with their dogs, hiking and the outdoors.