Carissa Garcia, PA-C

Carissa Garcia is the inaugural director of advanced practice at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C. She is a strategic and operational leader for a diverse and growing team of nurse practitioners and physician assistants across multiple specialties. With over two decades of progressive experience in clinical practice, education and health care leadership, Carissa is deeply committed to advancing the role of advanced practice providers in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.

In her role, Carissa focuses on leading advancements in APP scope of practice, strategic growth, recognition and professional development. She collaborates with key executive and medical stakeholders on multiple committees, including credentialing, bylaws and the Quality and Safety Council.

Before joining Sibley, Carissa served as director of advanced practice providers at The George Washington University Hospital. In this role, she provided strategic oversight for more than 130 APPs across 30 service lines, and spearheaded initiatives that elevated APP visibility and professional growth.

In addition to her administrative leadership, Carissa serves as a clinical assistant professor in the Physician Assistant Studies Program at The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Physician Associates and the District of Columbia Academy of Physician Assistants.

Carissa began her career as a surgical physician assistant, and has extensive clinical experience in general, bariatric, trauma and plastic surgery. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in health sciences and her Master's of Physician Assistant Studies from Duquesne University.

Dedicated to empowering APPs and fostering interprofessional collaboration, Carissa champions the evolution of advanced practice roles as vital partners in shaping the future of health care.