Physician Assistant
Danielle Haynes, PA-C
Year of Hire
Education
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies, Canisius University
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, University at Buffalo
Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts, Bard College
Board Certifications
National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)
Affiliations
New York State Society of Physician Associates (NYSSPA)
Who has been influential to you in your career path and how this person has influenced you?
One of my previous mentors, a family medicine physician I worked with as a medical scribe, has been incredibly influential in my journey to becoming a PA. As I documented patient encounters, I also had the opportunity to observe the way he cared for his patients and supported them through their most vulnerable moments. Watching him practice medicine taught me that being an exceptional healthcare provider extends beyond clinical knowledge. It also means showing compassion, kindness, and genuine care for every patient. He inspired me to pursue a career in medicine and taught me to remain curious, humble, and committed to lifelong learning, because there is always something new to learn from our patients, colleagues, and experiences.
What do you enjoy doing when you're not working?
Outside of work, I enjoy anything that involves movement, music, or exploring something new. I love dancing, traveling, experiencing new cultures, trying new foods, and staying active through workouts. Since moving to Buffalo, I’ve also become a proud Bills fan and quickly learned that this is practically a non-negotiable when living here!
Describe a time in your life when you experienced or witnessed the importance of good quality healthcare.
Before graduate school, I had the opportunity to travel to Guatemala on a medical mission trip, where I volunteered with a local organization to provide free medical care and resources to residents in several communities. This experience allowed me to witness firsthand the positive impact that access to quality healthcare can have on patients and their families. Many individuals shared that they previously struggled to afford medications and medical supplies needed to manage their health conditions, making access to care through our mission especially meaningful. This experience reinforced my commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality, and accessible care while recognizing the unique barriers that can affect a patient’s ability to prioritize their health.
What is something about your education experience that is unique?
One unique aspect of my educational journey is that I graduated high school with both my high school diploma and associate’s degree. This early achievement reflects the value I have always placed on education and lifelong learning. I take great pride in my educational journey and believe that knowledge is one of the most valuable things we can invest in because it is something that stays with us and continues to shape who we are.