Dr. Nicholas McClellan was drawn to how medicine inseparably combines each patient's real human experience with science and technology. He was drawn to rheumatology because in the field, understanding his patients and their symptoms remains more valuable than high-tech diagnostic studies.
“The illnesses can have very direct, tangible and physical effects, yet often do not have simple tests or criteria to make a diagnosis," he said.
Dr. McClellan received his medical degree from Western University of Health Sciences – College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific - Northwest in Lebanon, Oregon. He completed his residency in pediatrics at Marshfield Clinic Health System in Marshfield, Wisconsin and a fellowship in pediatric rheumatology at University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
He sees pediatric patients for inflammatory and autoimmune conditions that cause joint pain (arthritis), muscle pain or weakness (myositis), blood vessel swelling (vasculitis) and other body systems. He provides care and treatments such as joint injections (arthrocentesis), clinical diagnosis procedures including nailfold capillaroscopy, management of immunologic treatment and biologics for autoimmune conditions.
He enjoys getting to know his patients over time and being with them as he works with them to help improve their conditions.
“I want to be a resource for my patients and their families by making my training and skills available through clear communication and empathy," he said.
Outside of his practice, Dr. McClellan enjoys spending as much time outside as possible. He and his wife have three boys.