Perham Health is excited to introduce Dr. Andrea Westby, family medicine, as the newest member of its healthcare team. Dr. Westby will begin seeing patients at the Perham Health clinic September 4.

 

“What I love about family medicine is caring for whole families; being present with patients and their families through all aspects of their lives, “says the new doctor. “From prenatal care and birth, through childhood, adolescence, and adult wellness and preventative care, it is a privilege and an honor to be a part of these tremendous life events, from beginnings to ends of lives,” she adds.

 

Dr. Westby grew up on a farm outside nearby Pelican Rapids, Minn., with her parents and three sisters. After graduating high school, Dr. Westby attended Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash., receiving her undergraduate degree in biology with minors in chemistry and religion. She then attended the University of Minnesota Medical School and is currently completing her residency at United Family Medicine in St. Paul, Minn.

 

Women’s’ health - including maternal-child wellness - and preventative medicine and the use of exercise in treatment and prevention of disease, are particular interests of Dr. Westby. In addition, she has special interest in the care of adolescents and geriatrics.

 

“When deciding where I wanted to practice, I was really looking for a community that was invested in the health and wellness of its residents, as well as a vibrant place to live and work, where I could build friendships and relationships going forward. I found these qualities here in Perham and at Perham Health,” Dr. Westby said.

 

Joining Dr. Westby in Perham is her husband, Joe, and their two bulldogs, Vinny and Maeby. A bonus to moving to the area is the close proximity to her sister, Tami, who is a pediatric hematology/oncology nurse at Sanford’s Children’s Hospital and the Roger Maris Cancer Center, both in Fargo, N.D. Dr. Westby’s grandmother and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins live in the Pelican Rapids area.

 

In her free time, Dr. Westby enjoys being physically active, including running, swimming, biking, and golfing. She is an avid reader and supporter of Minnesota sport teams at all levels with a bit of partiality for the Minnesota Gophers.

 

“I am very impressed by the innovative and progressive care philosophies at Perham Health, especially with regards to the hospital and extended care facilities and anticipate being a part of the innovation in the future, she adds. “I am looking forward to building trusting and honest relationships with patients and their unique networks of family and friends, partnering with them during medical decision-making, and also being involved in the community with health education and service. I am really looking forward to being part of the healthcare team here.”