Mary Alivia Tolsma, PA-C

I am a certified physician assistant providing same-day care. My professional interests include family medicine, pediatrics, sexual health and contraceptive methods.

Hometown: New England

Practice philosophy: Above all else, evidence-based and non-judgmental care.

I am passionate about: raising my son to treat humans and the environment well, to listen and to find joy.

If I wasn't a provider, I would be a: writer, teacher, scientist, and explorer.

I became a provider because: clinical medicine, with the fascinating disease processes and human physiology (how the body works) has peaked my interest since childhood. I knew I wanted to work to improve people's lives, and medicine is just one small piece, so I explore other avenues.

Something my patients have taught me: There is a saying in medical training that the history (what the patient says to the providers) is 90% of the diagnosis. I believe that patients know their body, and that working with a patient to hear the course of illness and the motivation behind seeking care holds the key to the best care plan that fits the patient’s health goals.

My personal health goal: is to surround my family with people and activities that support our happiness. Some examples include travel, spontaneous game nights, curling, volleyball, nights on the porch with the neighborhood kids playing and biking/walking as a means of transportation.

The best thing I have done for my health is: research, moderation and finding the motivation that works for my life. Managing expectations and accepting praise are important as well.