Rachael Bauer, PA-C, is a physician assistant working in cardiothoracic surgery with special interests in wellness and lifestyle. Her primary focus is on the comprehensive management of patients undergoing cardiac and thoracic surgical procedures. Rachael assists in the operating room, performing vein and arterial conduit harvesting, and managing patients throughout the perioperative period from preoperative assessment to postoperative care in both the intensive care unit and step-down units.

She earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the Physician Assistant Program at Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati, Ohio. Rachael worked in numerous clinical rotations during her education, including a cardiothoracic surgery rotation.

Rachael became a physician assistant to combine her passion for improving the well-being of others with her calling to serve. Being a physician assistant allows her to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care while building meaningful connections with patients. Rachael believes it is a privilege to guide and support individuals through vulnerable moments, offering not only treatment but also understanding and advocacy.

In her spare time, Rachael enjoys high-intensity interval training (HIIT) exercises, cooking, martial arts, and woodworking. Her core values are faith, serving, and her commitment to her calling from God. Rachael is a third-degree black belt in tae kwon do.

This provider specializes in caring for patients during their stay in the hospital, overseeing their treatment and guiding them to recovery. After you’re discharged, you will be seen by your regular specialist or primary care provider.

What is a Certified Physician Assistant?

A physician assistant (PA) is a licensed healthcare provider who holds a master’s or doctoral degree and has advanced clinical training. They collaborate with physicians to diagnose and treat patients. Like physicians, they make referrals, provide physical exams, order and interpret tests, and prescribe medications.