Rebecca Rowland Steffens, MD

I went into medicine because it gives me the opportunity to help people directly in very important ways. I love Family Medicine because I get to know patients well over time. I believe the most important thing in medicine is to listen closely to the patient, observe carefully and care deeply about finding the right solution. Outside of work, I enjoy walking, reading, cooking, and spending time with my husband and three teenage daughters.

I like being on the front lines of medicine. Becoming a Physician Assistant (PA) never felt like a choice. From the moment I first encountered a PA as a patient, I was sold. In school, they teach us that 80% of diagnosis comes from the patient history. Listening to our patients should be our top priority. I love the variety of conditions that are addressed in family medicine. I enjoy getting to know my patients, and I like being part of their lives. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and chasing after our two kids. I also like yoga, sewing and making a mess in the kitchen. I try to avoid math, camping and laundry.

I first became interested in medicine when I coordinated clinical trials at UNC's Cancer Hospital. It was there that I learned the importance of teamwork, especially when it comes to providing the best care for patients. My approach to health care is patient-centered, always aiming to educate patients and empower them to actively participate in decision-making in all aspects of their health. My areas of special interest are in preventive medicine and management of chronic conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, asthma and hypertension. When I am not in the clinic, I spend time with my wife, son and friends; and if that happens to be by the beach or lake, even better!