Dr. Susan Claire Hermanson, MD

Albert Einstein said, "Joy in looking and comprehending is nature’s most beautiful gift." When I look back on my interests and choices in life, most of them revolve around my interest in people and my enjoyment of looking at things in the natural world.

In college, I found that I liked science, and applied science in particular. I enjoyed chemistry and was fascinated by physics, in particular the laboratory section. I majored in food technology, which allowed me to incorporate these interests.

Working with people is an important part of my work life. I take pleasure in hearing people’s life stories. As a visual person, I enjoy looking at images. Radiology offers a natural weaving of my interests in applied science, people, health, and looking at things in the natural world. As a radiologist, I often feel like a detective looking through a magnifying glass. It is satisfying work.

Kaiser Permanente embodies a collaborative process between specialties. We are working together for …the good of the patient. One important reason I chose to work at Kaiser Permanente was because I enjoy the people. There are good people here.

My philosophy of healing focuses on stress reduction. There are many simple things we can do to reduce stress, and live healthier and longer lives. Eating good food, attending to our breathing, and getting adequate rest and exercise are all important tools for good health. When I am not working, my favorite activity is to take a walk in a park or a beautiful natural setting. It helps me reduce stress, feel more grounded and peaceful, and it satisfies my need to view natural beauty. I agree with Thoreau who said, "We can never have enough of nature."