Physician Assistant Heather Sommers traces her interest in women’s health care back to the age of nine, when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her mother has survived, and Heather has translated that experience into seeking solutions for other women.
After graduating from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine & Public Health, Madison, in 2003, Heather joined Marshfield Clinic Health System.. She concentrates on women’s health concerns that range from reproductive health to family planning to menopause. “I grew up in Stevens Point, so I was very familiar with Marshfield Clinic’s reputation as a highly respected health care, educational and research facility,” she said.
Heather takes a true team approach with her patients. “I view myself as a teacher, giving the patients the information they need to make decisions about their care,” she said. “I listen to their individual concerns and make decisions with them, not for them.”
Heather was part of a team to institute a robotic surgical program that enables efficient gynecologic surgical procedures using a minimally invasive approach. She is the coordinator for the Marshfield Clinic Center for Female Sexual and Pelvic Health, which addresses problems with all aspects of female sexuality.
Heather and her husband, Dan, have three children. She enjoys outdoor activities such as camping and a variety of crafts, including scrapbooking.