Provider Profile

Get to Know Karina Ramirez, APRN

My name is Karina Ramirez; I’m a nurse practitioner at the Cotton O’Neil Pediatrics-Gage specializing in family medicine and primary care.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy spending time with my family and my children. We like watching movies and playing outside, which helps me relax.

Why did you become an APRN?

I’ve been passionate about the medical field since I was young. My family members come from a bilingual, Spanish-speaking community. I remember seeing my parents and grandparents struggle to get to the doctor and overcome language barriers with their physicians. I thought by becoming a medical professional, I could help my community and others who struggle with these barriers.

Topeka has a very diverse community; unfortunately, some healthcare systems haven’t served certain groups the best. I feel like I can help change that, especially for Spanish-speaking patients who might not go to the doctor because of the language barrier. I can provide a lot for these patients in other areas, but that’s just one.

Who inspires you?

My parents inspire me the most. All the hard work they put into moving to a different country and trying to learn the language and customs here made me a better person. It encouraged me to continue my education and do as much as possible.

Now that I’ve achieved this lifelong goal and have my first healthcare job, my kids motivate me the most. I want to show them they can do the same thing; it’s never too late! It doesn’t matter if you have kids, are married, or are older—you can still go to college and pursue your dreams.

What is your approach to medicine?

I have an evidence-based approach to medicine. I enjoy researching and explaining to patients why we prescribe or recommend certain things and have the evidence to back it up. It makes my guidance more credible to the patient, which goes a long way to building trust.

What’s the best part of your job?

I love getting to know each patient and seeing what I can do for them! What can I help them with? What resources can I provide? I enjoy having those honest conversations and seeing how I can improve the community by supporting each patient’s health.

What’s one thing you want patients to know about you?

I’m a good listener and focus on your needs! I’m here to help you reach your health goals based on what we mutually agree is best for you.