Physician Assistant Alexandra Richards Joins North Oaks Rheumatology Clinic

Alexandra Richards, PA-C, a nationally certified physician assistant, has joined North Oaks Rheumatology Clinic. To schedule an appointment with Richards, call (985) 230-APPT [2778] in Hammond.

She joins Rheumatologist Carl M. Gauthier, MD, in practice after working as a physician assistant in Baton Rouge. They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal, autoimmune and inflammatory medical conditions, like osteoporosis, as well as rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis.

“During my time working in rheumatology, I have seen firsthand the physical impact different conditions can have on my patients. With the proper treatments, I strive to work with each patient to improve their quality of life,” she explains. “Whether it’s a message saying they are able to wear their wedding ring again, a follow-up visit telling me they were able to play a round of golf again or personally feeling significant improvement in their joints during a physical exam, it makes my day and is a constant reminder of why I’m in this field of medicine.”

Her trademark in patient care is communication and working with the patient to discern the best care plan.

“Having open communication and trust really develops the patient-provider relationship,” she affirms. “These strong relationships help me provide quality, individualized care to my patients.”

Richards received a bachelor’s degree in natural science with a minor in psychology from the University of Akron in Ohio. She earned a master’s degree in physician assistant studies from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. She also is a member of the Louisiana Academy of Physician Assistants.

Richards started her career as a rehabilitation technician at North Oaks in 2016 and has always desired to build a career with the health system.

“I knew my goal was to return to North Oaks to better serve my community. I am so grateful the time has come – and even more so that it is in the field of rheumatology where I feel I can really impact patients’ lives,” she states.

North Oaks Rheumatology Clinic is in Suite 400 of North Oaks Clinic Building I, located at 15813 Paul Vega, MD, Drive on the North Oaks Medical Center campus in Hammond. Clinic hours of operation are 8 am to 5 pm weekdays.