Anastacia Winfield, MMS, PA-C

What is your practice philosophy? My practice philosophy is to connect with patients in areas outside of their health, and to consider varying factors in their life that may have led them to needing my care. I aim to use this to provide compassionate and individualized care that is equitable for all patients. 

If I wasn’t a provider, I would be a: A visual artist because I have always painted and drawn, and it would be amazing to be able to do something that engages my creative side for a living. 

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? I have wanted to be in the medical field since I was a teenager, and this was solidified for me in college, where I studied Global Health Studies, and was able to see the disparities in healthcare. This furthered my ambition to become the type of provider that was compassionate and equitable. 

Something I have learned from my patients is: I have learned that listening to and connecting with patients is very valuable when caring for them. It is important to learn about who they are, what they do, and how different aspects of their life may be helpful in providing care for them. 

One of the challenges of this career that I enjoy is (and why): Practicing medicine is challenging because no matter what your education level is, there is always more to learn and work to master. I love being in a field where things are constantly changing and having to continue to adapt to be the best provider possible. 

My personal health goal is: To continue to exercise and keep myself feeling healthy and happy. 

What is the best thing you’ve done for your health or the best health advice you’ve received? The best thing I have done for my health is taking the pressure off myself to adhere to strict diets and exercise regimens, and to listen to my body and be active in a way that brings me happiness, not stress. 

What are you most proud of? I am most proud of being a Critical Language Scholarship recipient from the U.S. State Department, which allowed me to learn Kiswahili and to eventually work for a Tanzanian non-profit organization in the development of healthcare modules and education. I also founded a Committee for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at my PA program, which widened the education in diversity in healthcare for my cohort. 

What are a few of your personal achievements? Kiswahili Critical Language Scholar 2017; Founding a Committee for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at my PA program, Running 2 half marathons