Michael Verenes, MD

My dad was a firefighter and paramedic for more than 30 years. I watched as he helped so many members of our community, and I was driven to do the same. Ever since I was young, I had a special interest in science and that led me to wanting to help people specifically in the medical field. Once I learned about the physician assistant position, I knew it was where I wanted to go. After three years of working in computer-assisted tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), I became so interested in the brain and everything related to it. The neurologists I was fortunate to learn from set the standard for me as an aspiring clinician; their intelligence and kindness toward patients has stuck with me to this day. I believe that healthcare is an art, and that it requires a combination of empathy and knowledge to take care of patients well. Each patient should be cared for as the unique individual they are. In medical care, I am a continual learner; there is always knowledge and experience for me to gain. I approach each day with a "better than yesterday" mentality. I want my patients to know that I am always striving to be an even better clinician and to achieve the best possible outcomes for them. I have been fortunate to live in many different places across our country. Before PA school, I lived first in Ohio, and then moved to Arizona for eight years. I enjoy adventure and the growth that comes with change, so living in different places forces me to keep growing. Spending time outdoors is one of my passions. I love hiking and kayaking on lakes, and I've gotten into pickleball lately. When I am not active outside, I'm often involved in something at my local church, reading a book, or watch sports with my family and friends.