Katherine Markelz, DO

Education

Berkshire Medical Center, Pittsfield, MA – Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine Fellowship

Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA – Internal Medicine Residency

Western University College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-Northwest, Lebanon, OR – Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA – Bachelor of Arts

Current Role

2024 – Present: General Internal Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine, Founder and Owner, Whole Health Osteopathy, Northampton, MA

2024 – Present: Clinical Preceptor for Osteopathic Medical Students, Northampton, MA

Previous Experience

2023 – 2024: General Internal Medicine Primary Care Physician, Valley Medical Group, Florence, MA

2022 – 2023: Hospitalist, Department of Medicine, Baystate Medical Practices, Springfield, MA

2020 – 2021: Primary Care Physician and Clinician Educator, High Street Health Center, Baystate Medical Practices, Springfield, MA

2020: Hospitalist, Per Diem, Department of Medicine, Baystate Medical Practices, Springfield, MA

2016 – 2017: Clinical Associate, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA

 

Trauma Informed Care - Screening, Providing Support, and Avoiding Retraumatization

This presentation on Trauma-Informed Care emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing the effects of prior trauma on patient interactions. It highlights key components including effective screening techniques to identify patients with trauma histories, understanding of how patients with trauma history can present clinically, the provision of appropriate support to support healing, and strategies to avoid retraumatization in clinical setting. The presenter will underscore the need for a compassionate, patient-centered approach that prioritizes safety, trustworthiness, and empowerment. The presenter will also show that creating environments that are sensitive to the needs of trauma survivors, healthcare providers can enhance patient outcomes, improve compliance with treatment plans, and contribute to overall well-being. The presentation will conclude with a call to action for healthcare professionals to integrate trauma-informed principles into their practice to better serve all patients. All physicians should attend this program.