Dr. Olsommer is didactic faculty in the School of Physician Associate Studies, where she leads the Nephrology and Emergency Medicine modules and contributes to teaching across Pulmonology, Musculoskeletal, Geriatrics, GU/Reproductive Health, and Surgery/Hospital Care. She also leads the longitudinal EKG and Ultrasound curricula.

She maintains a clinical practice as an emergency medicine PA at a Level I Trauma Center in Seattle. With 15 years of experience in emergency medicine, she has practiced in community hospitals, critical access hospitals, and trauma centers. She holds a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Emergency Medicine from the NCCPA.

Dr. Olsommer earned her PhD in Education and Leadership, with dissertation research examining the hidden curriculum in physician associate education and its implications for student learning, professional identity, and educational equity. Her scholarly interests include curriculum development, the hidden curriculum in PA education, education of and for vulnerable populations, diversity, equity, and inclusion in PA practice and education, point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), EKG education, and case-based learning.

Education

• PhD, Education and Leadership, Pacific University

• Master of Physician Assistant Studies, Samuel Merritt University

• Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy, University of Pittsburgh

• Certificate of Added Qualifications: Emergency Medicine, NCCPA

Practice/Research Interests

Dr. Olsommer's practice and research interests include emergency medicine, POCUS, EKG, curriculum development, the hidden curriculum in PA education, health equity, vulnerable populations, and case-based learning in PA education. 

Outside the Classroom

Dr. Olsommer enjoys gardening, travel, biking, her cat, and true crime documentaries.