Physician assistants are health care professionals licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision. As part of their comprehensive responsibilities, PAs conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, counsel on preventive health care, assist in surgery, and implement treatment plans. Within the physician-PA relationship, physician assistants exercise autonomy in medical decision making and provide a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic services. A PA’s practice may also include education, research, and administrative services.
PAs are trained in intensive education programs accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
Because of the close working relationship the PAs have with physicians, PAs are educated in the medical model designed to complement physician training. Upon graduation, physician assistants take a national certification examination developed by the National Commission on Certification of PAs in conjunction with the National Board of Medical Examiners. To maintain their national certification, PAs must log 100 hours of continuing medical education every two years and sit for re-certification every six years. Graduation from an accredited physician assistant program and passage of the national certifying exam are required for state licensure.
Jennifer Sissom, PA-C
- Bachelor of Science in Biology, Valdosta State University, 1998
- Master of Medical Science, Physician Assistant Program, Emory University, Honors 2003
- Board Certified Physician Assistant
Jennifer Sissom is a certified physician assistant specializing in medical dermatology. Jennifer joined Georgia Dermatology Partners in 2007. She provides personalized and comprehensive care by leveraging her experience, dermatology expertise and commitment to patient satisfaction. She treats a variety of skin disorders in patients of all ages, ranging from acne and rashes to skin cancers.
Jennifer is a member of the American Academy of Physicians Assistants, Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, and Georgia Association of Physician Assistants.
In her free time, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family and cheering for her girls who play softball.
She is married with two children.
Courtney R. Davis, PA-C
- Master of Science, Physician Assistant Studies, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 2007
- Bachelor of Science, Biology, University of North Georgia (formerly North Georgia College & State University), 2004
- Board Certified Physician Assistant, 2008
Courtney Davis is a certified physician assistant. She was raised in a military family and has lived in several states as well as abroad in Germany. Courtney spent 5 years practicing in surgery before joining Georgia Dermatology Partners in 2013. She is committed to providing excellent care to patients of all ages and all skin types. She believes patient education is an important aspect of dermatology, and enjoys taking time to make sure her patients understand their treatment options and plans. Courtney’s practice includes general dermatology, pediatric dermatology, and surgical dermatology. She has a special interest in acne, skin cancer surveillance and surgery, and hyperhidrosis.
Courtney is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Georgia Dermatology Physician Assistants, American Acne and Rosacea Society, and Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. She is a registered provider with the International Hyperhidrosis Society.
When she is not caring for her patients, Courtney spends time at home in Atlanta with her husband Mark, their two children, and their dog Cole. Her interests include tennis, cooking, and traveling.
Devon Pattillo, PA-C
- MASTER OF MEDICAL SCIENCE, PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PROGRAM, MERCER UNIVERSITY, COLLEGE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS, 2014
- BACHELORS OF SCIENCE, BIOTECHNOLOGY AND CELL BIOLOGY, GEORGIA GWINNETT COLLEGE, 2011, CUM LAUDE
- BOARD CERTIFIED, PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT
Devon Pattillo is a certified physician assistant who joined Georgia Dermatology Partners in 2014. Passionate about providing excellent clinical care, Devon places a high priority on patient’s needs and concerns. She treats a variety of skin disorders in patients of all ages, from acne, psoriasis, and rashes to skin cancers. She has a comprehensive practice that includes general dermatology, pediatric dermatology, and surgical dermatology.
Devon is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Georgia Dermatology Physician Assistants, and Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants.
In her spare time, Devon enjoys being outdoors, spending time with her family, and participating in activities at her church. She is married with three children.
Kristin Turmel, PA-C
- BOARD CERTIFIED PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT – NCCPA, 2020
- MASTER OF HEALTH SCIENCE, PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES – SOUTH COLLEGE, 2019, SUMMA CUM LAUDE
- BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BIOCHEMISTRY, CELLULAR, & MOLECULAR BIOLOGY – UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE, 2012, CUM LAUDE
Kristin Turmel is a certified physician assistant that joined Georgia Dermatology Partners in the midst of the 2020 pandemic. She relocated to Georgia from Tennessee where she was born and raised. Kristin has an enduring passion for giving back to her community and takes great pride in her continued ability to help others with their dermatologic needs. Her practice comprises medical dermatology including general, pediatric, and surgical subspecialties with a special interest in hair loss.
Distinguished amongst her peers, Kristin received the highest award by the faculty of South College during her physician assistant training. She continues to engage in supporting the physician assistant community as a member of Pi Alpha National Honor Society, Georgia Dermatology Physician Assistants, Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, and the American Academy of Physician Assistants.
Beyond patient care, Kristin enjoys time spent with her family, exploring the outdoors, painting with various mediums, traveling to the coastline, and watching Tennessee football.
Maria Paz Henkels, PA-C
- Bachelor of Science in Dietetics, Florida State University, 2017
- Master of Science in Physician Assistant Practice, Florida State University, 2021
- Board Certified Physician Assistant
M. Paz Henkels is a certified physician assistant who joined Georgia Dermatology Partners in 2022. She is committed to providing excellent clinical care to patients of all ages and skin types. Paz treats a variety of skin disorders from acne and rashes to skin cancers.
Paz is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Georgia Dermatology Physician Assistants, and Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants.
In her spare time, Paz enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, and traveling.
Hannah Buehler, PA-C
- Board Certified Physician Assistant, 2021
- Master of Science in Physician Assistant Practice, University of Augusta, 2021
- Bachelor of Science in Biology, University of Georgia, 2016
Hannah is a certified physician assistant. She is passionate about providing quality care and treating patients of all ages with various dermatologic conditions. She performs routine skin cancer screenings and dermatologic surgeries. Hannah enjoys educating patients about their conditions and working together to customize the best treatment plan.
Hannah is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Georgia Dermatology Physician Assistants, and Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. Hannah is a member of the Alpha Eta Society for her leadership and academic excellence at Augusta University.
When not at the office, Hannah enjoys spending her time with her husband, wakeboarding, and snowboarding.
Stephanie Bauguss, PA-C
- Undergraduate - University of Georgia, Bachelor of Science Cellular Biology, 2019.
- Graduate - Mercer University College of Health Professions, Master of Medical Science, 2023.
- Board Certified Physician Assistant 2023
Stephanie Bauguss is a board-certified physician assistant with a profound specialization in the field of medical dermatology. With a career driven by a relentless commitment to patient care, Stephanie has become a beacon of knowledge and compassion, empowering individuals to embrace the health and beauty of their skin. Stephanie embarked on her journey at the esteemed University of Georgia, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Cellular Biology. Her insatiable curiosity led her to Mercer University College of Health Professions, where she earned her Master of Medical Science.
At the core of Stephanie's practice lies a profound belief in the power of education and preventive care. She understands that well-informed patients make healthier decisions, and she takes the time to educate individuals about their skin health. With a focus on medical dermatology, Stephanie crafts personalized treatment plans that cater to diverse skin types and conditions, ensuring that each patient's journey is unique and effective.
Stephanie's expertise spans a wide spectrum of skin conditions, from the everyday struggles of acne to the complexities of eczema/atopic dermatitis. Her proficiency also extends to general skin care and the critical area of skin cancer detection and management. With a meticulous and empathetic approach, she ensures that her patients receive the highest standard of care.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Stephanie is an avid supporter of the UGA football team, she enthusiastically cheers them on during the season. She cherishes quality time spent at the lake with family and friends, and of course tending to her houseplants.
Sierra Lowery
- Bachelor of Science with a minor in Biology, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 2018
- Masters of Medical Science, Nova Southeastern University at Fort Lauderdale, Dr. Pallavi Patel College of Health Care Sciences, 2022
- Board Certified Physician Assistant 2022
Sierra Lowery is a board-certified Physician Assistant. Before joining Georgia Dermatology Partners, Sierra practiced as a physician assistant specializing in medical dermatology in South Florida. She is a graduate of the esteemed Nova Southeastern University - Fort Lauderdale where she received her Master of Medical Science. With a deep passion for dermatology and a commitment to excellence, she strives to empower patients to achieve healthy, radiant skin.
Sierra is committed to delivering comprehensive and personalized care to patients of all ages and diverse backgrounds. Sierra has a special interest in cosmetic dermatology and enjoys treating a wide range of dermatological conditions including acne, eczema, rosacea, rashes, melasma, skin cancer, and more. Sierra prides herself on listening to patients’ concerns, thoroughly explaining diagnoses and treatment options, and empowering her patients to take an active role in their skincare journey. She is dedicated to providing exceptional dermatological care with warmth, expertise, and a personalized touch.
Sierra is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Georgia Dermatology Physician Assistants, and Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants.
Outside of work, Sierra enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, exercising, and spending time with family, friends, and her dog Bella.
Nurse Practitioners
Nurse practitioners (NPs) are healthcare providers that are licensed to practice medicine as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). NPs are educated at the masters or doctoral level and have advanced clinical training beyond their initial preparation as a registered nurse. NPs receive certification through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or an equivalent certification organization from another nurse practitioner specialty.
Nurse practitioners practice independently and in partnership with other healthcare professionals in numerous settings including primary, acute, and specialty care areas. As part of their practice, NPs assess patients, order and interpret diagnostic tests, make diagnoses, prescribe medications, perform procedures and initiate and/or manage treatment plans with an added emphasis on disease prevention and health promotion.
Brittany Dupree, FNP-C, DCNP
- BOARD CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGY NURSE PRACTITIONER, 2023
- Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, 2018.
- Master of Science in Nursing. Specialty: Family Nurse Practitioner & Nurse Midwife. Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, 2018.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing, Georgia State University, 2015. Summa Cum Laude.
Brittany is both a board certified family nurse practitioner and a dermatology certified nurse practitioner who joined Georgia Dermatology Partners in 2018. Brittany is committed to providing the highest quality, personalized, comprehensive, and compassionate care to all patients and their families. She is passionate about serving a diverse patient population of all ages and improving the health of all through education and empowerment. She evaluates, diagnoses, and manages a variety of dermatologic skin conditions including psoriasis, eczema, acne, rashes and all types of skin cancers with an emphasis on detection, prevention, and treatment. Her practice includes medical, pediatric, and surgical dermatology.
Brittany is a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, Georgia Dermatology Physician Assistants & Nurse Practitioners, and Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society.
Outside of the office, Brittany enjoys spending time with her husband, family, and friends. She also enjoys traveling, exercising, cooking healthy meals, and shopping.
Kenny Padron, NP-C
- Bachelors in Science of Nursing - East Tennessee State University (2019).
- Masters in Science of Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner) - East Tennessee State University 2022.
Kenny Padron is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in medical dermatology. Kenny's educational journey began at East Tennessee State University, where he earned a Bachelor's in Science of Nursing in 2019. Fueled by a desire to elevate his practice, he pursued a Master's in Science of Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner) from the same institution in 2022.
Fluent in both English and Spanish, Kenny is a champion of inclusive healthcare, extending his holistic approach to patients from diverse backgrounds. A true advocate for equality and representation, he actively participated as a committee member, introducing impactful measures to enhance equity and inclusion within undergraduate nursing education.
Kenny's commitment to education extends beyond the classroom. He generously shared his knowledge by tutoring nursing students during his undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, displaying an unwavering dedication to nurturing the next generation of healthcare providers.
At the heart of Kenny's professional journey lies his profound expertise in medical dermatology. From fundamental skincare to complex issues such as skin cancer, acne, rosacea, psoriasis, and fungal infections, Kenny navigates the intricacies of skin health with precision and compassion. His clients benefit from his wealth of knowledge and his personalized approach, ensuring that their dermatological concerns are met with the highest level of care.
