Michaela Rziha, PA-C

Michaela Rziha, PA-C, is an orthopedic care provider for Amberwell Atchison and Amberwell Lansing Clinic. Michaela was a highly accomplished student throughout her formal medical education. She was the Biology Student of the Year recipient during her senior year at Benedictine College. During PA school at Des Moines University, she was an Iowa Physician Assistant Society Scholarship recipient, served as president of her class, and won the Clinical Excellence Award. Her passion for science, learning, and people inspires her to serve the Atchison and Lansing area communities each and every day.

On choosing Amberwell…

Michaela fondly recalls her time at Benedictine College, a special place where she met her husband, an Atchison native. “As a college student and during our visits back to my husband’s family after moving to Iowa, I developed a love for the Atchison community,” she shared. The couple wanted to come back to the area, be a part of the community, and make a difference. Michaela had a vision for her career; she wanted to work at Amberwell, particularly in surgery. “I felt fortunate when an opportunity arose on Amberwell’s orthopedic care team as I began looking for a position. It was perfect timing,” she added.

On becoming a physician assistant…

From an early age, Michaela’s fascination with science influenced her life and career choices. “I’ve always been interested in science. In middle and high school, I had my very own subscription to National Geographic and read it cover to cover every single month,” she recalls. “I remember looking under a microscope in my sophomore biology class. Seeing that protozoa swimming in pond water was amazing to me.” Her passion for science was nurtured by her family background. “My father, a veterinarian, exposed me to the wonders of animal life, and my mother wisely advised me to combine my love for science with working with people, which led me to pursue healthcare,” she said. Michaela’s journey to becoming a PA began early, as she got her CNA license right after high school and worked in a nursing home. “What I enjoy most about being a PA at Amberwell is the personal connections I have with patients and the collaboration I have with fellow providers.” Michaela looks forward to a long and satisfying career with Amberwell.

On her patients’ experience…

“One of the key aspects of the experience I provide to my patients is attentive listening,” said Michaela. “Having worked in urgent care, I understand that healthcare settings can often have time constraints. Despite this, I’ve always prioritized taking the time necessary with each patient, asking detailed questions, and genuinely listening to their responses. This approach allows me to thoroughly understand not just the immediate health concerns, but also the underlying needs and desires of my patients. It’s important to me that my patients feel heard and understood, as it helps in accurately addressing their health issues and providing a more personalized and effective care experience.”

About Michaela

Michaela lives in Atchison with her husband Michael. When she’s not caring for patients, Michaela is an avid reader and enjoys experimenting in the kitchen. “I’m not a master chef, but I do cook a lot,” she admits with a smile. “I love fermenting my own kombucha and making homemade sauerkraut.” Having bought one of the older, historic homes that Atchison is known for, she can often be found working on various DIY renovation projects around her house. She has a passion for community service and is an active member of her church, leading a midweek fellowship for teenage girls.