What is a Physician Assistant (PA)?
A Physician Assistant (PA) is a highly trained medical professional who works closely with Physicians to provide high-quality care to patients. PAs are educated in a medical model designed to complement Physician training. They are licensed to diagnose and treat illnesses, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications, perform joint injections, and often serve as a patient’s principal healthcare provider.
Our Physician Assistants
Anay Vallejo
Physician Assistant
Anay Vallejo, PA, is a dedicated and compassionate Physician Assistant who joined our Rheumatology team in 2020. She is committed to providing patient-centered care alongside Dr. Perez-Masuelli and Dr. Wilson in Rheumatology.
Anay enjoys treating a variety of conditions and takes pride in establishing trusting relationships with her patients.
Before joining, Anay gained a wide array of experience in Cardiology and Pediatrics, which has enriched her approach to patient care. As a Houston native, she is fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing her to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population.
Anay is currently seeing patients at our Bellaire and Shenandoah locations, where she continues to provide exceptional care and support to those in need. Her dedication to her patients and her profession exemplifies the highest standards of medical practice.
Professional Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Neurobiology: University of Texas at Austin
- Master of Physician of Assistant Studies: University of Texas Medical branch
Professional Memberships:
- National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants Certification
- American Academy of Physician Assistants
- American College of Rheumatology
Elizabeth Stapper
Physician Assistant
Elizabeth Stapper, PA, is a dedicated and skilled physician assistant who joined Dr. Perez-Masuelli’s practice in 2022. With a strong passion for Rheumatology, Elizabeth enjoys treating a variety of conditions and is committed to building long-term relationships with her patients.
Elizabeth completed her rigorous physician assistant training at Mississippi College, where she developed comprehensive medical knowledge and a compassionate approach to patient care. Her expertise and empathetic nature have made her an invaluable resource and asset to the healthcare team. She is currently seeing patients at the Woodlands location.
Outside of work, she enjoys reading, traveling, playing tennis, and spending time with friends and family.
Professional Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Health Sciences with Distinction: Hendrix College
- Master of Physician of Assistant Studies: Mississippi College
Professional Memberships:
- National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants Certification
- American Academy of Physician Assistants
- American College of Rheumatology
Adding Value to Your Care
It’s important to understand that PAs like Anay and Elizabeth do not take the place of your treating Rheumatologist. Instead, they work alongside your Physician to enhance and extend the care you receive. By doing what they have been trained to do by Physicians, PAs help ensure that patients receive timely and comprehensive care. They play a crucial role in managing and treating various health conditions, allowing for more personalized attention and continuity in patient care.
Other Rheumatology Partners Providers
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Carmen Perez-Masuelli,
MD, FACP, FACR
Rheumatologist
in The Woodlands
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Leslie E. Wilson, MD
Rheumatologist
in North & Central Houston
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Kalpita Hatti, MD
Board-Certified Rheumatologist
in The Woodlands
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Physician Assistants
Anay Vallejo
&
Elizabeth Stapper