Ryan Enerson, PT

Ryan Mertens, DO, joined The Iowa Clinic in 2022 because he loves the passion fellow providers and staff have for the Clinic and patient care. Dr. Mertens practiced independently in primary care before returning to fellowship training in Pulmonology at Creighton University. He chose this specialty because of its many modalities. Between the clinic, hospital, and ICU, it provides him with numerous opportunities for patient care. Difficulties with breathing can be a very anxiety provoking and traumatic experience and he finds helping patients in these specific situations to be very gratifying.

Paula Jirak, PTA has been with The Iowa Clinic since 2004. The outpatient setting and opportunity to work with multiple specialties in one building are what appealed to her about The Iowa Clinic. Paula's interest in physical therapy came about from seeing the impact it can make in people's lives, which is what drove her to become a physical therapist herself. She has seen patients become more independent, avoid nursing facilities, return to work with no discomfort, and athletes return to their sporting activities after injury. There is nothing more rewarding than receiving a spontaneous hug from a patient, letting her know what a positive difference she has made in their lives.

Dr. Enriquez is an Iowa transplant, who grew up in the city of Manila, Philippines. After living in New Jersey, New York City, Los Angeles and Florida, he now calls Iowa his home. He particularly likes the challenge of Critical Care Medicine; taking care of very ill patients in the ICU.