Tawny Loyd, PA-C
Breast Care and General Surgery, Boone Breast Care Clinic
I am originally from the Chicago area, but I live in Columbia now with my husband and 1-year-old son. I received my bachelor’s degree from Truman State University where I played basketball and met my husband. I worked as an EMT in Saint Louis until I was accepted into PA school. I received a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne, Indiana. I accepted a job as a Physician Assistant/Surgical First Assist with the Boone General Surgery group right out of school. I have recently transitioned to working with Dr. Petersen in the Boone Breast Care clinic where we see patients with many different breast concerns as well as continuing to practice general surgery.
Why did you get into the health care field? I have always been fascinated with medicine, but what really drew me in was the opportunity to help people in a meaningful way. Being a Physician Assistant allows me to take extra time to connect with patients, listen, and provide medical knowledge that will hopefully, make a difference in their care.
What interested you in your particular specialty? I have always been interested in breast cancer and breast care. I feel like there are so many lives that breast cancer touches, individually or through loved ones, and the ability to see patients and help them along their journey is very meaningful to me. Even helping women experiencing benign breast disease is important because it can be scary when something is occurring in the breast at any age.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? Being a part of a team that takes care of breast cancer patients is very rewarding. I am grateful to be a part of their journey and try to help make a difficult time a little less overwhelming.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job? The most challenging part of my job is witnessing the emotional toll that breast cancer takes – not only on patients, but their families too.
What do you see changing in health care in the next 5 to 10 years? I would like to think that we will see healthcare become more connected and patient centered over the next 5-10 years. Technology, such as AI, will keep growing and help with early detection and efficiency. These advances in technology will give providers more time to spend and connect with their patients.
What advice would you give someone looking to become a Physician Assistant? I’d tell anyone thinking about becoming a PA to go for it because it is truly such a rewarding career. Be prepared to work hard and never stop learning. Gaining hands-on experience prior to becoming a PA is key and will help tremendously throughout school and when you start your career.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?I love to read books and listen to audiobooks. Since having my son, I don’t have as much time to myself, but I enjoy spending my free time with him and my husband. He definitely keeps us busy these days!
What advice would you give to someone who is going to be a patient in a hospital for a period of time? My biggest advice is to be your own advocate and do not be afraid to ask questions. It is easy to feel overwhelmed in a hospital but understanding what is happening and why can make a big difference.