About Jessica When it comes to her chosen career path, Jessica Filipski says she got her inspiration from her dad. “He was a paramedic for 21 years and then a firefighter for 13 years,” she explains. “Listening to his stories growing up made me interested in the medical field.” She decided to further her education and became the first physician assistant in her family. Jessica first became interested in orthopedics and sports medicine when she volunteered as a student athletic trainer in high school. “During my orthopedic rotation, I enjoyed the hands-on approach in evaluating and providing care and education to the patient,” she says. Her role as an advanced practice provider is to work collaboratively with physicians and other members of the healthcare team to ensure the best care for patients. “I evaluate, diagnose and treat illnesses,” Jessica says. “As an orthopedic PA, I am also able to perform a variety of tasks such as suturing, wound debridement, joint injections, placing orthopedic stabilizers and assisting in surgery.” In Her Own Words What are your hobbies, interests? In my spare time, I enjoy spending time outside with my dogs, running, and working out. I also enjoy taking time to relax by drawing and painting. Do you have pets? I have 2 dogs.