Cassandra Samaniego, FNP-C

I am a Team Care Provider (TCP) and help cover appointments, online messages and calls as an extension of your care team. I work with Dr. Laura Bagley, Michelle Thorsness, NP, and Dr. Gretchen Vanden Berg, and am able to help when your primary care provider does not have availability. While patients are unable to establish regular care with me, I diagnose, treat and manage various health conditions, order diagnostic tests, prescribe medications and provide patient education and counseling, keeping your provider informed along the way.

Practice philosophy: Empowering patients through education.

What are you passionate about and why? I am passionate about providing accurate, evidence-based information to my patients. As a life-long learner, I believe education empowers people to make informed decisions about their well-being. Through active listening, I can tailor this education to each patient.

If you weren't a health care provider, what would you be? A detective. I love solving mysteries.

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? I became a provider to provide a safe space for patients to be heard without fear of judgment. I knew this was my calling when I had my son while serving in the United States Air Force.

What is something you have learned from your patients? I learn something from every one of my patients. 

What is one of the challenges of this career you enjoy? And why? One challenge I enjoy is that each person is different. This requires that I continually learn and grow to meet the patient's needs. I enjoy problem solving and investigating.

What is your personal health goal? Increase my cardiovascular fitness.

What is the best thing you've done for your health or the best health advice you've received? Moderation is key.

What are you most proud of? I am most proud of my children and family. They keep me on my toes and make me proud each day.

What are a few of your personal achievements? I graduated with honors from the United States Air Force basic training. Then graduated magna cum laude as an undergraduate before attending Georgetown University to complete my Master's degree.