Meet Our Team

Claudia Szymala, PA-C

Hospitalist Physician Associate

Claudia Syzmala

Claudia Szymala, PA-C, received her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Stephens College and her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Missouri (M-I-Z!). She enjoys connecting with other physician assistants and advocating for the PA profession as it continues to grow and evolve.

In her free time, Claudia enjoys traveling to national parks, hiking, caring for her plants, gardening, and exploring new restaurants around Kansas City.

EDUCATION

  • Stephens College in Columbia, MO; 2025
    Master of Physician Assistant Studies
  • University of Missouri – Columbia; 2020
    – Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
    – Minor in Biology
    – Minor in Spanish Foreign Language
    – Multicultural Certificate

VOLUNTEER

Claudia is passionate about cultural competency and expanding access to care for diverse patient populations. She traveled to Honduras in 2018 and 2019 to participate in medical & dental clinics and to support public health initiatives through Global Brigades.

She also studied abroad in Oviedo, Spain in 2019, completing her Spanish minor while living with a host family. In addition, her master’s capstone project examined the clinical significance of language interpretation services and their impact on patient outcomes, with a focus on professional versus relational interpreters. These experiences have shaped her commitment to delivering inclusive, patient-centered care and ensuring every patient feels heard and understood.

ORGANIZATIONS

  • American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA)
  • Missouri Academy of Physician Assistants (MOAPA)
  • Kansas Academy of Physician Associates (KAPA)
  • Association of Plastic Surgery PAs (APSPA)
  • American Association of Surgical Physician Assistants (AASPA)

See what patients are saying about Ascentist Healthcare.

Rated 5 out of 5
“Everyone I interacted with was very friendly and professional. I was extremely early to my appointment, and they were able to get me in sooner, which was unexpected and lovely. The building itself was very swanky.”
Emeline F., Merriam, KS
Emeline F.
Merriam, KS
Rated 5 out of 5
“Loved this place for our 3 year old!! We did originally have her tubes done elsewhere and will not be going back due to loving Ascentist so much!”
Jessica M., Kansas City, MO
Jessica M.
Kansas City, MO
Rated 5 out of 5
"People with allergies and or anything that deals with your sniffer, should come to this place. Our daughter had surgery here but its relatively quick and not too painful. Staff was very nice. If it helps your loved ones, check into it."
C., Lee’s Summit, MO
C.
Lee’s Summit, MO
Rated 5 out of 5
"The care, compassion, professionalism, and friendliness from the doctors and staff are hard to beat. I enjoy each visit and a piece of me will be saddened that I will no longer need to go into the office much longer (because he listens and is great at his job), Dr. Foster listens, cares, and is ready to tackle my concerns. I am grateful to be referred to Dr. Foster and hope others are receiving the same experience!"
Sharon R., Ascentist Healthcare patient
Sharon R
Merriam, KS

Trust Ascentist Healthcare for Premier Medical Services in Kansas City and Beyond

From primary care to major surgery and everything in between, Ascentist Healthcare brings specialists and physicians together in one place to provide comprehensive healthcare for our patients.