Kayla Napper, PA-C, Hematology/Oncology Physician Assistant

Description

I pursued medicine because I have always been fascinated by how the human body works and by the profound impact health has on a person’s life. More than the science, it was the feeling of truly helping someone — being someone they could trust and lean on during confusing, frightening or overwhelming moments — that drew me to this field.What means the most to me in my work are the relationships I build with my patients. Earning trust and understanding my patients beyond their symptoms — their lives, concerns and what matters most to them — is what keeps me grounded and grateful for the work I do. I have developed a deep passion for caring for oncology patients, drawn not only to the clinical complexity but also to the emotional and mental challenges cancer creates during treatment and long after it ends. Survivorship is especially important to me, and I strive to support my patients throughout their entire journey, including life beyond the clinic.I am also passionate about benign hematology. Our clinic cares for a growing population of patients with these conditions, and I enjoy helping them understand their diagnoses and feel empowered in their care.Across cancer treatment, survivorship and benign hematology, my goal is always the same: to care for patients as whole people — physically, emotionally and in all the ways their health intersects with their lives. Being involved in the full continuum of oncology care, including family discussions, complex decision‑making and navigating both progress and setbacks, has strongly shaped my approach as a clinician.Outside of medicine, I enjoy staying active and have run three marathons. I also enjoy CrossFit, spending time with my family, cooking, baking and relaxing on the lake.