Laura Hoag Schneider, PA-C

The Centre Region has been home to Laura since her high school years. After earning her Master of Physician Assistant Science from Saint Francis University, she was eager to return and build her career at Mount Nittany Health. “I have lived here since high school,” she said. “And based on the great things I have heard from others about working at Mount Nittany Health, it was a no-brainer for me to work here as well.”

Laura knew from a young age that she wanted to pursue a career in healthcare based on her experience with one of her providers. “I decided at a young age that I wanted to work in healthcare because of an incredibly positive experience with a provider of mine,” she shared. “I appreciated how she interacted with me and listened to my concerns, and I wanted to do the same for other people.”

Based on her experience, her philosophy of care is rooted in empathy and a personal approach. “My belief is to treat every patient I encounter as I would want my family members or myself to be treated,” Laura explained. “Every patient you interact with has people who love them, so just as I would want to be treated well when I go see my providers, I think it’s important to treat my patients in the same manner.”

Her passion for providing personalized care lends itself to her decision to pursue primary care as her area of practice. “I truly enjoy getting to know my patients on a more personal level by seeing them more often throughout the year,” Laura shared. “I think it’s rewarding to see patients progress throughout the years.”

"The most rewarding part of working as a healthcare provider is seeing patients make choices that improve their lifetime of health," she continued. "Knowing that I am a small part in helping so many people motivates me to keep doing what I do."

Educating and advocating for her patients are important parts of her role as a provider. "As a PA, it is important to explain to patients exactly what is going on with the disease processes being treated," she explained. "It is important that they truly understand what is being treated to have better patient compliance and understanding. As a provider, I will always do my best to explain everything to patients so they can understand and advocate for themselves in any aspect I can."

Outside of work, Laura leads an active and fulfilling life. "In my free time, I enjoy reading a variety of genres, kayaking, hiking, spending time with my family and friends, and walking my dog," she shared. "My true passion, however, is interior design, so I can often be found watching HGTV and looking for new house projects to be completed."

Laura wants her patients to know she's deeply committed to their well-being: "I will go to the ends of the Earth to help patients get better in any aspect of life, but I can only coach a patient so far," she shared. "Additionally, your mental health makes up a huge part of your overall physical health, so it is important to know that seeking help is not a sign of weakness."