Briana M. Richine, PhD, PA-C

Why do you work with patients who have breast cancer?

I was passionate about science from a young age. I started out as a researcher but felt like something was missing: seeing patients on a day-to-day basis. I realized that I wanted to be a part of patient care directly, not just from the bench. Breast cancer spoke to me as a specialty because it’s a collaborative effort among many fields to provide the best outcome for patients, and people affected by breast cancer can be incredibly strong. I am honored to be a part of their journey.

What is your approach to care and treatment?

During my PhD training, my father was diagnosed with cancer, and the care he received opened my eyes to the kind of practitioner I strive to be: respectful, compassionate and collaborative. I believe that it’s important to provide individualized care to every patient and to involve both patients and families in the decision-making process. An important part of my role as a physician assistant is education, helping you clarify your goals for care and sharing information about your illness and treatment plan. Every step of the way you can count on my support.

Provider Background

Breast cancer

I am a board-certified physician assistant (PA) who specializes in treating patients with breast cancer. I provide care through Fred Hutch’s Women’s Wellness Clinic, which offers follow-up services for those who have completed treatment for breast cancers or at a high risk for developing breast cancer. My background includes a PhD in medical and molecular genetics. Today, as a PA, I enjoy combining my research and clinical training to provide women with personalized oncology care.