March is Blood Clot Awareness Month, a nationwide initiative dedicated to educating communities about Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and other serious vascular conditions. At Inovia Vein Specialty Centers, our mission is to empower individuals with lifesaving knowledge and accessible, patient centered vascular care.
This March, our team proudly participated in the joint spring conference hosted by the Washington Academy of Physician Associates (WAPA) and the Oregon Society of Physician Associates (OSPA) at Skamania Lodge in Stevenson, Washington. The event brought together physician associates, students, and healthcare professionals from across the Pacific Northwest for a collaborative and engaging learning experience.
Our physician liaison, Carmen Spear, represented Inovia Vein – raising awareness about blood clot prevention, vascular health, and early detection while connecting with providers throughout the region.
A Collaborative Gathering for Clinical Excellence
The WAPA & OSPA Spring Conference is designed to foster collaboration, clinical advancement, and professional growth among physician associates and healthcare leaders.
Participants engaged in:
- Timely clinical education sessions
- Hands on workshops
- Interactive discussions across specialties
- Meaningful networking with peers and industry professionals
Popular sessions returned this year, including motivational interviewing, point of care ultrasound (POCUS), and diagnostic imaging – equipping providers with practical tools to enhance patient care.
The atmosphere reflected a shared commitment to advancing medicine and strengthening the healthcare community through collaboration and continued learning.
Investing in the Future of Healthcare
One of the highlights of this year’s conference was the strong presence of physician associate students – engaged, eager to learn, and clearly dedicated to the future of patient care.
We connected with many students from Pacific University, the alma mater of Jessica Baele, DMSc, PA-C, who practices at our Tanasbourne clinic. These conversations were especially meaningful as we supported students following a similar path into healthcare.
Investing in their education and mentorship today helps ensure continued access to high quality, patient centered care across our communities.
Jessica Baele, DMSc, PA-C, shared:
“Conferences like this are invaluable for developing practical skills and building professional connections. Hands on sessions and real world discussions reinforce what we learn in training, while connecting with experienced providers offers valuable perspective as we begin our careers. Opportunities like these help prepare physician associates to step into practice with confidence and a deeper understanding of patient care.”
Advancing DVT Awareness and Vascular Education in the Pacific Northwest
During the conference, our team focused on educating providers about DVT risk factors, warning signs, and prevention strategies. Connecting directly with physician associates allows us to extend our reach beyond the clinic and support improved patient outcomes across the communities they serve.
Participating during Blood Clot Awareness Month underscores the importance of early detection, vascular health education, and proactive vein care.
Recognizing Leadership and Partnership in Medical Education
We extend our sincere thanks to Mike Oechsner, Executive Director of the Oregon Society of Physician Associates, and his dedicated team for bringing together experts across specialties. Their leadership continues to create meaningful opportunities for education, innovation, and connection within the healthcare community.
The Vital Role of Physician Associates in Patient Care
Physician associates play a critical role in delivering high quality, patient centered care. Their expertise, accessibility, and collaborative approach are essential to meeting the growing healthcare needs of our communities.
Events like the WAPA & OSPA Spring Conference highlight the importance of supporting and investing in physician associates and students – ensuring they have access to the latest clinical knowledge, tools, and professional networks needed to succeed.
Partnering to Improve Leg Health Across the Region
The 2026 WAPA & OSPA Spring Conference demonstrated the power of bringing providers together – where education, collaboration, and shared purpose drive meaningful progress in patient care. We are grateful for the opportunity to connect with physician associates, students, and healthcare partners across the Pacific Northwest while continuing to raise awareness about blood clot prevention, leg health, and vascular disease management.
These connections play a vital role in improving care coordination, supporting early detection, and ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.
At Inovia Vein, we remain committed to partnering with healthcare organizations, clinics, and community groups to deliver education on DVT prevention, venous disease, and comprehensive vein care.
To connect with our team or schedule a provider education session, call 1 800 VEIN DOC and ask for our physician liaison. Discover how Inovia Vein can serve as your trusted partner in leg health.