Ann Grimes,

“I value the emphasis on patient empowerment at City of Hope,” says Ann Grimes, a physician assistant in surgery at our northern Illinois hospital. “The coordination among providers enables us to provide compassionate care.”

Grimes discovered her career path when she learned about the physician assistant profession in high school. She completed a bachelor’s degree in biology at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, where she graduated summa cum laude and was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa honor society. She then earned a master’s degree in health sciences/physician assistant studies from Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.

Grimes is certified as a physician assistant by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

Previously, Grimes served as a physician assistant at a large regional medical center in Maryland. Her responsibilities included obtaining medical histories, performing physical examinations, ordering and interpreting diagnostic testing, educating patients and families and providing other medical support.

Grimes joined our hospital in August 2014. She ensures her patients understand aspects of their health and treatment so they know their options and are encouraged to play a vital role in their cancer care.

“Working with cancer patients is both rewarding and humbling,” says Grimes. “We are trusted to take care of patients during a very vulnerable time.”

In her free time, Grimes enjoys being with her husband and young daughter, cooking and reading.