Amy Ellingson, MD

Specialty: Family Medicine

Years in Practice: 22

Works at: Three Rivers Family Medicine & Seattle Menopause Medicine, Brewster

Society memberships: WSMA, AAFP, Menopause Society

Why WSMA: WSMA provides many opportunities that were unavailable when I was just attending to my medical practice. It is a chance to connect with physicians and physician assistants from all over the state, in different specialties than my own and in different practice settings. It has provided additional leadership training where I was able to connect with providers across the state and who were in varied types of practices. WSMA is also an opportunity to help make a difference for both patients and the healthcare team in our state. I have enjoyed seeing the passion behind the resolutions that are presented each year and learn so much. I feel more informed and empowered to help shape healthcare in Washington state.

Why serve on WSMA’s Board: I wanted to serve on the board in order to be more involved. I got involved late in my career and wanted to learn as much as possible as quickly as possible about how WSMA worked. It provides a chance to understand and take part in the inner workings of WSMA, which I really enjoy. Seeing the hard work and dedication of the staff and WSMA leadership is also inspiring. I also felt it was important to have representation from a rural county to provide our unique perspective and experience.

Why should physicians lead:

1. We are the ones in the room with patients and we know what is helping and what is hurting.
2. We have a lot at stake and therefore are highly motivated to make this system work.
3. We are trained problem-solvers and with the right training, can be effective leaders.

How do you help further WSMA’s vision to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care: One of the reasons I wanted to join the board was to be voice from rural medicine in Washington state. Many of the medical providers in WSMA work in urban and/or academic settings. I listen carefully and speak up when the rural perspective needs to be heard. We have some different challenges, needs and desires and it is important to have diversity on the board to hear all voices.

Fun fact about you: I have traveled to Lesotho, a country in southern Africa, three times over the past 15 years. I am on the board and medical director for The Tiny Lives Foundation which a grassroots, locally staffed, female-led organization in Mokhotlong, Lesotho. We serve a rugged, mountainous area of a small country with one of the highest HIV + rates in the world. It has been an honor to travel and work with the people in Lesotho and each trip has been personally transformative.