Katherine “Katie” Shutler is a California native who earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Cell Biology, with a minor in Health Care and Social Issues, from the University of California, San Diego. She later earned her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Ithaca College and was inducted into the Alpha Eta Honor Society in recognition of her outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to service. Before becoming a Physician Assistant, Katie built a strong clinical foundation through her work as a urology medical assistant, certified nursing assistant in a memory care setting, and medical volunteer at a diabetes education camp. During her graduate training, she developed a passion for preventive medicine, patient education, and advancing equitable access to healthcare. Her graduate capstone project focused on increasing STI screening rates and reducing barriers to testing through innovative community-based initiatives. In addition, she conducted research on tropical infectious diseases on behalf of an international nonprofit organization and represented the Ithaca College Physician Assistant Program at the PAEA Health Policy Summit in Washington, D.C., where she advocated for policies that expand healthcare access in rural and underserved communities.

Having lived with type 1 diabetes for more than two decades, Katie brings both professional expertise and personal insight to her approach to patient care. Her own experiences navigating a chronic medical condition have strengthened her belief in the importance of compassionate, individualized healthcare. She is dedicated to partnering with patients to develop personalized care plans that reflect their unique goals, values, and lifestyles, empowering them to effectively manage both acute and chronic health conditions while achieving the quality of life they desire. Outside of medicine, Katie enjoys exploring the outdoors with her husband and golden retriever, as well as cooking and traveling. She is excited to become part of the Pacific Northwest community and looks forward to discovering its natural beauty, vibrant local culture, and renowned coffee scene. Katie is especially honored to join Kirkpatrick Family Care and to work alongside a team that shares her commitment to exceptional patient care, community involvement, and improving the health and well-being of those they serve.