Hess, Jaclyn MD

Healthcare was always my chosen field, but not always in a patient-facing role. When I was in school at Appalachian State University, I initially trained to work in healthcare management and administration. During my internship, I began to spend more time with clinicians. I witnessed firsthand the deep and rewarding relationships clinicians have with patients, and the role they can play in helping patients improve their health and well-being. This inspired me to shift course from administration to clinical practice. While in physician assistant school, I spent time working in multiple specialties and learned from great doctors and physician assistants across those fields. When I worked with the neurology team at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, something just felt right. I had always thought neurology was an intriguing specialty, and working with the clinicians in the field sealed the deal. It was not only their talents in the art of medicine, but also their compassion for both patients and those around them who stood out to me. I knew this specialty was my passion. My approach to healthcare relies heavily on efficacy-based medicine and shared decision making. I want the best outcomes for my patients, and that starts with including them in the decision-making process. I see my job as helping to guide them so that we can find a medically appropriate therapy that works best for them. I was born and raised in the Winston-Salem area, and feel a deep connection to the region and its people. I still love going back to Appalachian State for football games. Closer to home, participating in running, tennis and lacrosse keeps me active. Also in my downtime, I enjoy seeing family, as well as exploring new coffee shops and bakeries around town.