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Patient Care Champion: Tony Pirrello

Systems Administrator | IT Department

At Physician Partners of America, patient care is a team effort. While some team members work directly with patients, others work behind the scenes to make sure our clinics, ASCs, physicians, and staff have the technology and support they need to provide excellent care.

This month, we’re proud to recognize Tony Pirrello, Systems Administrator and self-described “IT Jedi,” as our Patient Care Champion!

Meet Tony

Born in Peoria, Illinois, Tony was raised in Daytona and Largo, Florida, and now calls Clearwater home. He is married with two children—a 19-year-old son and a 13-year-old daughter.

Tony graduated from Seminole High School in 1996 and later earned an A.S. in Cybersecurity from St. Petersburg College.

Tony also proudly served our country in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed at multiple locations throughout the United States as well as in Korea. His military service is an important part of his story and reflects the dedication and commitment he continues to bring to his work today.

Outside of work, Tony enjoys drawing and painting, archery, and 3D printing.

From Raytheon to PPOA

Tony began his career working for Raytheon. After his daughter was born, he decided to pursue a career in IT and returned to school to study technology and cybersecurity.

After working for a managed service provider in Clearwater and later LSI, Tony joined Physician Partners of America in 2019.

Today, he is one of the people the team calls when a technology problem needs a solution that goes beyond the ordinary.

The IT Jedi Behind Patient Care

Tony describes his role simply:

“Basically, I fix everything that the help desk is unable to.”

That includes troubleshooting complex issues, finding creative solutions, and helping keep PPOA’s phone, fax, and other critical systems running.

While Tony may not interact with patients directly, his work has a direct impact on their experience. When technology works properly, our physicians and clinical teams can spend less time worrying about technical problems and more time focusing on their patients.

IT may work behind the scenes, but it plays an important role in keeping patient care moving forward.

A Word From His Nominator

Tony was nominated for Patient Care Champion by Matthew Leonard, Vice President IT.

“Tony is the person you want in your corner when something goes wrong. He has an incredible ability to find solutions others may not see and keep things moving. He consistently goes above and beyond to support our clinics, ASCs, physicians, and team members. I’m proud to have him on our IT team and believe he is very deserving of this recognition.”

— Matthew Leonard, Vice President IT

Going Above and Beyond

When asked to describe a time when he or the IT team went above and beyond to help a PPOA team member, clinic, or ASC, Tony’s response was classic:

“Isn’t that everyday?”

For someone whose job is to solve problems that others can’t, that answer says a lot.

Whether it’s a clinic experiencing a technical issue, a communication system that needs attention, or a team member who needs help, Tony is always ready to find a solution.

Thank You, Tony!

At PPOA, we know that exceptional patient care takes an entire team. From our physicians and clinical staff to our administrative, operations, and IT teams, every person plays an important role.

Tony, thank you for your service to our country, for keeping PPOA connected, and for solving the problems that keep everyone else moving. Your work may happen behind the scenes, but its impact is felt throughout our organization and ultimately helps our teams provide better care to our patients.

Congratulations, Tony, on being named a PPOA Patient Care Champion!

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Patient Care Champion: Ingrid Roman

Front Desk Coordinator, Orlando-South, FL

Our employees are all patient care champions, but some go the extra mile and we want to give them the recognition they deserve. They embody the PPOA values known as S.I.T.E. – Safety, Integrity, Teamwork, Empathy – which informs our service to patients and the community through high quality health care.

This month, we’re proud to recognize Ingrid Roman, Front Desk Coordinator at our South Orlando clinic, for her outstanding dedication to creating a welcoming and compassionate experience for every patient who walks through our doors.

Meet Ingrid Roman

Originally from Santurce, Puerto Rico, Ingrid now calls Kissimmee, Florida home. She is the proud mother of a daughter and enjoys staying active in her free time through salsa dancing, going to the gym, and spending time at the racetrack.

Before joining PPOA in 2023, Ingrid built a diverse career working with organizations including Dollar Tree, Carousel Therapy Center, and Associates of Dermatology. She also served as a Taekwondo instructor, demonstrating the discipline, leadership, and commitment she brings to her work each day.

Making Every Patient Feel Welcome

As the first face many patients see when they arrive, Ingrid plays an essential role in ensuring every visit begins on a positive note. Her daily responsibilities include:

  • Patient check-in and check-out
  • Answering phone calls, text messages, and emails
  • Managing faxes and referrals
  • Processing patient payments
  • Handling medical records requests

Whether assisting a new patient or greeting someone she knows by name, Ingrid is dedicated to making every interaction a positive one.

Inspired by Great Patient Care

When asked what she enjoys most about working at PPOA, Ingrid shared:

“I love working with Dr. Ansari because he is an inspiration and gives his patients the best possible care they need.”

Recognized by Her Team

Ingrid’s commitment to patient care has not gone unnoticed by her colleagues.

“Ingrid provides excellent patient care. She greets every patient with kindness every minute of every day. She knows her regular patients and makes her best attempts to make them feel welcomed the moment they step inside. She works well with her team and providers. She always has a smile on her face.”
— Natasha Michael, Operations Manager

Thank You, Ingrid!

“At PPOA, we know that the patient experience begins the moment someone walks through our doors. Ingrid exemplifies the compassion, professionalism, and commitment to service that define our organization. Her ability to make every patient feel welcomed and valued reflects the culture we’re proud to build across all of our clinics. We’re grateful to have Ingrid as part of the PPOA team.”
— Josh Helms, Chief Executive Officer, Physician Partners of America

Thank you, Ingrid, for your positivity, compassion, and dedication to delivering outstanding patient care every day. We’re proud to have you as part of the PPOA family.

 

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Patient Care Champion: Naomi Perez-Pinto

Medical Assistant | Tampa (Habana)

At Physician Partners of America, our Patient Care Champions exemplify what it means to deliver compassionate, high-quality care every day. We’re proud to recognize one of our outstanding Medical Assistants from our Habana Clinic in Tampa, Florida, Naomi Perez-Pinto, her dedication and teamwork make a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients.

A Passion for Patient Care

“I truly appreciate the recognition and am honored to be selected as a Patient Care Champion. It means a great deal to be acknowledged, and I’m very grateful to be part of such a supportive team.”

Born and raised in Tampa, Florida, she continues to serve the community she calls home with pride and compassion. Since joining PPOA in August 2024, she has quickly become an integral part of the Habana Clinic team.

Leadership Recognition

“Team members like her are the backbone of our clinics,” said Eric Alvarez, Vice President of Clinic Operations. “Her dedication to patient care, attention to detail, and willingness to support both patients and providers truly embody the values we strive for at PPOA.”

Peer Recognition

“Naomi Perez-Pinto exemplifies outstanding dedication to patient care, consistently going above and beyond to support both patients and her team.

As the only Spanish-speaking Medical Assistant in the clinic at this time, Naomi is frequently called upon to assist with translation and patient communication. Despite the added responsibility, she always steps in with a positive attitude and a smile.

She remains calm and professional in every situation, even when working with difficult or irate patients. Her ability to de-escalate while ensuring patients feel heard and supported is truly commendable.

Naomi is always willing to help others, never hesitates to take on additional responsibilities, and consistently gets the job done with excellence.

Her commitment, teamwork, and compassion make her truly deserving of recognition as a Patient Care Champion.”

Education and Background

She earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from the University of South Florida in Summer 2025. Her academic background reflects her commitment to building a strong foundation in healthcare while continuing to grow professionally in a clinical setting.

A Day in the Life

As a Medical Assistant, her role is essential to ensuring a smooth and positive patient experience. Her daily responsibilities include:

  • Triaging and rooming patients
  • Taking vital signs and preparing patients for visits
  • Assisting providers during procedures
  • Supporting prior authorizations and administrative needs
  • Answering phone calls and providing translation assistance
  • Maintaining clean, organized, and fully stocked exam rooms

Her attention to detail and willingness to support both patients and providers contribute to the overall efficiency and success of the clinic.

Why Healthcare?

Driven by a desire to help others, she chose a career in healthcare to make a direct impact on patients’ lives.

“I wanted to gain hands-on experience working directly with patients and make a meaningful impact on their care. This role allows me to support patients during vulnerable moments while continuing to learn and grow.”

What She Loves Most

For her, the most rewarding part of the job is the human connection.

“What I love most about my job is the opportunity to connect with patients and be part of a team that works together to provide quality care. I enjoy building trust with patients, helping them feel comfortable, and knowing that even small actions can make a positive difference in their experience.”

She also values the strong sense of teamwork within the clinic and embraces every opportunity to continue learning and developing her skills.

Life Outside the Clinic

Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, painting, collecting trinkets, and fishing. She is also passionate about giving back to the community, having volunteered with Feeding Tampa Bay and Metropolitan Ministries.

Celebrating Excellence

Naomi represents the heart of PPOA’s mission—delivering compassionate, patient-centered care while supporting teammates every step of the way. Her dedication, positivity, and commitment to excellence make her truly deserving of the Patient Care Champion recognition.

We are grateful to have her on our team and look forward to her continued growth and success.

 

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Patient Care Champion: Katie Taylor

Business Development | East Coast Territory Manager

Each month, Physician Partners of America recognizes team members who go above and beyond to support patients and providers. This month, we are proud to recognize Katie Taylor, East Coast Territory Manager, Business Development, as our Patient Care Champion for her exceptional dedication and commitment to expanding patient access to care.

At Physician Partners of America, delivering exceptional patient care extends far beyond the clinic walls. Our Business Development team plays a vital role in connecting patients with providers and ensuring our physicians have the support they need to succeed. As East Coast Territory Manager, Katie Taylor exemplifies this mission through her dedication to relationships, teamwork, and patient access.

Katie has served PPOA since May 2021, supporting referral relationships across Central Florida and Brevard County while also overseeing representatives in Jacksonville and South Florida. Her work helps strengthen partnerships with providers and ensures patients can access the specialized care PPOA delivers.

A Relationship-Driven Career

Originally from Schaumburg, Illinois, Katie moved to Orlando, Florida in her early twenties. Before entering healthcare business development, she built a successful 20-year career as a certified massage therapist, working in multiple Disney Resort spas. That experience helped shape her patient-centered mindset and appreciation for compassionate care.

Katie was drawn to business development in healthcare because of her passion for building meaningful connections.

“I was drawn to Business Development in the medical field because I genuinely love building relationships. Connecting with providers, supporting our teams and earning trust over time is what energizes me. What makes it especially meaningful is knowing those relationships directly impact patients and help connect them to the care they need.”

Supporting Growth and Patient Access

In her role as East Coast Territory Manager, Katie focuses on strengthening provider relationships and expanding PPOA’s reach throughout her territories. Her daily work includes:

  • Supporting and growing referral relationships across Central Florida and Brevard County

  • Building new partnerships with local providers

  • Ensuring PPOA teams have the resources they need to succeed

  • Collaborating with device and industry partners to bring in new patients

  • Overseeing PPOA representatives in Jacksonville and South Florida

Her consistent communication with provider offices ensures patients receive timely referrals and coordinated care.

Passion for People

For Katie, the most rewarding part of her work is the people she serves and works alongside every day.

“What I love most about my job is the people. I’m proud to represent providers I truly believe in and am incredibly grateful for the direct team and leadership I get to work alongside. Having an amazing director and a team that genuinely supports one another makes the work meaningful and something I truly enjoy.”

Her dedication extends beyond work. Katie enjoys traveling, boating, mudding, and reading, and she values time with her husband, stepson, and energetic puppy.

Leadership Recognition

According to PPOA leadership, team members like Katie are essential to the organization’s continued growth and patient impact.

As Josh Helms, CEO of Physician Partners of America, explains:

“Our Business Development team plays a critical role in connecting patients with the care they need. Katie’s commitment to building strong relationships and supporting our providers reflects the values that define Physician Partners of America.”

Katie Taylor’s dedication to patients, providers, and teammates makes her a true Patient Care Champion and an important part of PPOA’s mission to expand access to high-quality care across Florida.

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Patient Care Champion: Jennifer Piccola

Operations Manager | South Fort Worth, Texas

At Physician Partners of America, Patient Care Champions are the foundation of exceptional care. This month, we proudly recognize Jennifer Piccola, our Operations Manager of Texas based in South Fort Worth, for her unwavering commitment to patients, providers, and clinic excellence.

A Life Rooted in Service

Born in Waycross, Georgia, Jennifer spent her younger years in Polk County, Florida, before moving to Texas at the age of 12. Today, she calls Euless, Texas home, where she lives with her husband, Bennie, and their four children — one son and three daughters. When she’s not working, she enjoys reading and watching the rain, embracing calm moments amidst life’s busyness.

From Sonic to Healthcare Hero

After graduating from Van High School in May 2007, Jennifer began her professional journey outside of healthcare, serving as a manager at Sonic for five years, where she honed her leadership and operational skills. Inspired by her grandmother — a CNA — she knew her path ultimately belonged in healthcare.

She earned her Medical Assistant license from Everest College in March 2015, and soon after, joined Physician Partners of America in 2015.

Growing Within PPOA

Jennifer’s PPOA career is a testament to dedication and growth. She began as a greeter at the TPRG Hurst location, then moved into check-in/check-out, transitioned into a back-office Medical Assistant role, and quickly advanced into management. She served as Manager at Hurst, then took over the South Fort Worth location, overseeing two clinics. Most recently, she was promoted to Operations Manager of Texas, while continuing to oversee the South Fort Worth clinic — a role she fulfills with heart and expertise.

Leading with Purpose

In her role, Jennifer ensures clinic operations run smoothly and efficiently for both patients and staff. Her daily work includes everything from triaging patients and assisting with check-in/check-out, to supporting staff and providers, and helping other clinic managers across Texas as needed.

“On any given day, I simply help with what the clinic needs — whether that’s triaging patients, overseeing clinic flow, or supporting staff to make sure everything runs smoothly for our providers and patients.”

— Jennifer Piccola, Operations Manager of Texas

A Heart for Patients

Her favorite part of working in healthcare is building relationships with patients over time.

“We often see the same patients month after month, which allows us to know them personally. My favorite moments are when patients who once struggled to walk return after procedures walking straighter or without a cane. Those moments truly warm my heart.”

Leadership Perspective

“Jennifer consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional patient care and ensuring every patient feels valued and supported. Her compassion, professionalism, and dedication set a standard of excellence that inspires those around her.

She goes above and beyond in every interaction — whether it’s addressing patient concerns promptly, advocating for their needs, or coordinating closely with physicians, surgical centers, and authorization teams to ensure patients can move forward with their procedures as scheduled. Jennifer spends countless hours each week working through every detail, sometimes even calling insurance companies or referring clinics to secure late clearances so no patient is left behind.

Jennifer treats every patient with empathy and compassion and explains things in a way they can truly understand. Her exceptional service and leadership make her truly deserving of this recognition. She embodies the qualities of a Patient Care Champion and continues to make a lasting impact on both our patients and her peers.”

— Eric Alvarez, Vice President of Clinic Operations

CEO Recognition

“Jennifer’s leadership is a true reflection of our mission at PPOA. Through her compassion, operational excellence, and unwavering dedication, she elevates the patient and provider experience across our Texas clinics. We are proud to recognize her as a Patient Care Champion.”

— Josh Helms, CEO, Physician Partners of America (Tampa)

A True Patient Care Champion

Jennifer’s career reflects a deep commitment to operational excellence, compassionate patient care, teamwork, and leadership. We are grateful for the passion, dedication, and integrity she brings to PPOA and to the patients and teams she serves every day.

Thank you, Jennifer, for being a true Patient Care Champion.

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Patient Care Champion: Nancy Munoz

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Practice Manager | Millenia–Orlando

At Physician Partners of America, Patient Care Champions are the foundation of exceptional care. This month, we proudly recognize Nancy Munoz, Practice Manager at our Millenia–Orlando location, for her lifelong commitment to patients, providers, and operational excellence.

A Heart for Service

Born in Jersey City, New Jersey, and raised in Buffalo, New York, and Barcelona, Spain, Nancy was shaped by a family culture rooted in dignity, discipline, and compassion. Family remains central to her life today. In September 2025, she celebrated becoming a grandmother—an experience she describes as one of life’s greatest blessings.

A Lifelong Career in Healthcare

Nancy discovered her passion for healthcare at just 14 years old, helping her uncle, a pediatrician, in his medical practice. That early exposure sparked a career spanning nearly 50 years of patient-centered service, including more than four decades in interventional pain management and anesthesia services.

She joined Physician Partners of America in 2018 following the acquisition of Richard L. Smith, MD, and continues to bring unmatched experience and dedication to PPOA.

Leading with Excellence

As Practice Manager, Nancy oversees front-office and administrative operations, ensuring patients are welcomed with warmth and that physicians have the support they need to deliver seamless care. From scheduling and authorizations to compliance, staff coordination, and clinic efficiency, her attention to detail and commitment to service are evident in every aspect of her work.

“I’m here to help,” Nancy says. “Listening with empathy and understanding a patient’s pain can truly make a difference.”

Words from Leadership

Nancy’s impact is felt across the organization.

Eric Alvarez, Vice President of Clinic Operations, shared:

“Nancy is dedicated to her role as a manager and employee at PPOA. She is always kind to patients and does whatever she can to help them. I never receive patient complaints from her office, which speaks volumes about the care she provides. She works exceptionally well with her providers to ensure smooth clinic operations and high-quality patient care. Even with only one full-time employee, she consistently keeps everything running smoothly—always greeting patients with a smile.”

Josh Helms, CEO of Physician Partners of America in Tampa, added:

“At Physician Partners of America, our success starts with people who genuinely care, and Nancy Munoz is a perfect example of that. Her dedication to patients, providers, and operational excellence reflects the culture we strive to build across PPOA.”

A True Patient Care Champion

Nancy Munoz embodies the values of Physician Partners of America through compassion, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. We are grateful for the experience, heart, and positivity she brings to our patients and teams every day.

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Community, Compassion, and Corporate Excellence

How Leadership Beyond the Office Strengthens Organizations and the Communities They Serve.

For Josh Helms, CEO Physician Partners of America, leadership doesn’t stop at the clinic door. In addition to his role as CEO of PPOA, he actively contributes to community well-being through service and mentorship. He serves on the Board of Directors for Metropolitan Ministries, where he supports programs that uplift individuals and families in need—a reflection of his belief that strong communities are essential to strong healthcare systems.

Throughout his career, Helms has been recognized for his leadership and commitment to innovation, including being named among Becker’s “Top ASC Leaders Under 40.” Yet he remains focused on the collective success of the people and organizations he leads, not on accolades.

At PPOA, Helms encourages a culture rooted in compassion, accountability, and continuous improvement—values that extend from employees to the patients and communities the company serves. His leadership emphasizes that operational excellence and empathy are not opposing forces, but partners in sustainable growth.

By combining strategic insight with a genuine dedication to service, Josh Helms exemplifies a modern approach to healthcare leadership—one defined not just by results, but by relationships, responsibility, and respect.

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From Sales Executive to CEO- The Steady Leadership Journey of Josh Helms

How Vision, Collaboration, and Purpose Shaped a Healthcare Leader.

Every strong organization is built on leadership that values both people and progress—and for Josh Helms, that balance has guided his entire career. Today, as Chief Executive Officer of Physician Partners of America (PPOA), Helms brings years of experience in healthcare operations, strategic growth, and patient-centered innovation.

His career began outside the boardroom, with a focus on helping people and improving systems that make care more accessible. Before becoming CEO, Helms served as Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at PPOA—roles that deepened his understanding of collaboration, efficiency, and the patient journey.

Earlier in his career, Helms was part of the leadership team at Laser Spine Institute, where he advanced to Senior Vice President of CARE Operations. There, he received several internal awards recognizing his adaptability and commitment to organizational excellence, including the President’s Choice Award and Embracing Change Award.

Helms’ educational background reflects his dual focus on empathy and execution. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of South Florida and an MBA from the University of Tampa’s John H. Sykes College of Business—a combination that grounds his leadership style in both human understanding and business strategy.

At PPOA, Helms has helped strengthen the company’s mission to relieve pain, restore function, and renew hope for patients nationwide. Under his guidance, the organization continues to invest in advanced interventional pain management, physician partnerships, and technologies that enhance both outcomes and access to care.

His path to leadership demonstrates that progress in healthcare doesn’t come from titles—it comes from listening, learning, and leading by example. Helms’ journey reminds emerging professionals that integrity, consistency, and compassion remain the cornerstones of lasting impact.

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Physician Partners of America Wins Gold for Best Pain Management in Tampa Bay!

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We did it, Tampa Bay!

Physician Partners of America (PPOA) is proud to announce that we have been awarded Gold in the 2025 Tampa Bay Best of the Best Contest for Best Pain Management!

This incredible recognition honors all our clinics across the greater Tampa Bay area and the dedicated teams who provide exceptional care every day. From our physicians and medical assistants to our front office and support staff, every member of the PPOA family plays a vital role in helping patients find relief, restore function, and reclaim their quality of life.

“Being recognized as the Best of the Best is truly an honor,” said Josh Helms, CEO of Physician Partners of America. “It reflects the hard work, skill, and heart our team brings to every patient encounter across every clinic in the greater Tampa Bay area. Most importantly, it motivates us to continue advancing pain management with innovation, empathy, and excellence.”

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our patients, colleagues, and community for your trust and votes and to the Tampa Bay Times for shining a light on healthcare providers who make a difference.

At PPOA, we remain committed to raising the bar in compassionate, patient-focused pain care throughout Tampa Bay and beyond.

Thank you, Tampa Bay — this Gold is for you!

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Patient Care Champion: Kaitlyn Swanson

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Front Office Coordinator | PMA Fullerton, California

At Physician Partners of America, our Patient Care Champions embody compassion, dedication, and the drive to make every patient feel valued. This month, we’re proud to recognize Kaitlyn Swanson, Front Office Coordinator at Pain Medicine Associates (PMA) Fullerton, California. Known for her positivity, professionalism, and warm personality, Kaitlyn ensures every patient visit begins and ends with care and compassion.

Born in Moreno Valley and raised in Imperial, California, Kaitlyn has always been family-oriented. As the eldest of five and a devoted pet mom to four dogs and two cats, she brings the same love and energy to her patients and team.

Kaitlyn’s passion for healthcare began in high school while volunteering at a convalescent home.

“It broke my heart to see so many residents without family,” she recalls. “I wanted to be someone they could depend on.”

After studying biology at Imperial Valley College, Kaitlyn discovered her true calling: working directly with people in healthcare. She began as a file clerk before moving into patient-facing roles, where her compassion and organization skills shine. When Dr. Hess’s practice joined PMA in July 2023, Kaitlyn continued leading the front office with dedication.

From coordinating appointments and billing to assisting patients and providers, Kaitlyn manages the front office independently and efficiently. Her work ensures the clinic runs smoothly and patients receive the attention they deserve.

October was a standout month. Kaitlyn was personally mentioned in 13 positive Google reviews, a testament to her exceptional service and welcoming demeanor. Patients consistently praise her kindness and professionalism, noting how she makes each visit a positive experience.

“If I can make a patient’s day a little easier or bring a smile to their face, that’s what it’s all about,” Kaitlyn says.

Outside of work, Kaitlyn enjoys hiking, beach days, DIY projects, and cooking new dishes. Her creativity and heart extend into every part of her life.

Since joining PMA, Kaitlyn has become a valued member of the Fullerton team. Her compassion and upbeat spirit perfectly represent PPOA’s mission to improve lives through exceptional patient care.

“Kaitlyn embodies everything we strive for at PPOA — genuine compassion at every interaction, unwavering dedication to our patients, and the positive energy that helps us deliver outstanding care. Her commitment to making each person feel seen and supported is exactly what being a Patient Care Champion is all about.”
— Josh Helms, CEO of Physician Partners of America

Congratulations, Kaitlyn, you truly are a PPOA Patient Care Champion!

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