By: Yared Cano-Sanchez 

Tiffany Scheller's journey into medicine began with a passion to help others and serve her community. With a master’s in public health from the University of Nevada, Reno and years of experience as a registered dietitian, Scheller’s career initially focused on adult inpatient care.  

It wasn't until later, while working in pediatrics and conducting home visits across rural Nevada through the Nevada Early Intervention Services program, that Scheller began to truly understand the scope of health care disparities. “Working with families for up to three years provided a unique perspective on the challenges faced by rural and frontier populations across our state,” she said. 

“I knew broadening my scope of practice as a PA would allow me to fill gaps in access to health care in my community - especially in primary care.”

With that goal in mind, Scheller returned to the University and entered the Physician Assistant Studies program at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med), determined to become a provider who combines clinical knowledge with a patient-centered approach. 

Her interest in family medicine was a natural fit. “There is a critical need for primary care providers, and working in family medicine allows me to serve a broad patient population, from birth to geriatrics,” she said. Her path has allowed her to build on her background in nutrition and prevention. “Nutrition is a vital aspect of primary prevention, and combining this expertise with my passion for medicine enables me to approach diagnosis and treatment with a more holistic perspective.” 

Throughout PA school, Scheller navigated not only academic challenges but also the demands of life outside the classroom. As a wife and mother of three young children, balancing school, family duties, and exams required strength and support. “I knew being a parent to three young children would make attending the rigorous PA program challenging, but my faith, support of my amazing husband and family, and dedication to the process allowed me to succeed.”  

The long hours away from home weren't easy, but her family adapted alongside her. “Our children witnessed the power of teamwork and learned what it means to pursue a goal with dedication and perseverance, even in the face of challenges,” she said. 

One of her most memorable experiences was competing as a member of the UNR Med PA ultrasound team at the 2024 AAPA Conference in Houston, Texas. “Our team took third place out of over 50 teams nationally,” she said. It was a milestone moment, one that reflected the strength of her teammates and their shared support. She recalled that, “UNR Med PA students are profoundly supportive of each other through the ups and downs.” 

Upon graduation, Scheller will practice as a PA in family medicine, providing care to a medically underserved population. She also plans to continue serving rural Nevada while beginning her Doctor of Medical Science at Butler University this fall, as education remains a core passion for her.

“I love to teach and hope to serve as a future community faculty member as I build my practice and support the next generation of PAs!” she exclaimed. 

For aspiring PA’s, Scheller offers sincere advice: “Consistently embody humility and curiosity. These qualities cultivate the mindset of a clinician committed to lifelong learning, continuous improvement, and unwavering dedication to our patients. As a PA, I hope to build the kind of trust and rapport that allows patients to feel safe, heard and respected." 

From her early work in nutrition to her commitment to family medicine, Scheller's path is one shaped by purpose, perseverance and dedication to her community. Her story is a testament to how empathy, hard work, and clear goals can transform not only one career - but an entire community.