Joanna Gao, PA-C

Joanna Gao, PA-C, is a board-certified advanced practice provider specializing in surgical oncology. She works with a team that performs surgery using advanced techniques, including minimally invasive and robotic surgery. Joanna holds a particular interest in continuity of care throughout the pre-, intra- and post-operative phases, and a demonstrated ability to engage in empathetic, cross-cultural care. She listens first to understand each patient and their family's needs, then works as a team to build a care path that is right for them.Joanna obtained experience in hepatobiliary and foregut surgical oncology at Ascension Columbia St. Mary's (Milwaukee, WI), where she provided surgical first assisting, laparoscopic/robotic assisting, surgical drain insertion/removal, wound care and suture/staple closure. She is experienced with the Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy), distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy, gastrectomy, colectomy, and complex cholecystectomy.Joanna is a member …of the American Academy of Physician Assistants.Away from work, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, hiking, rock climbing, and traditional tea ceremonies.