Biography
Astear Semaie, MMS, PA-C’s journey to becoming a medical provider was deeply influenced by her upbringing in Eritrea, East Africa. Witnessing the significant impact of medical professionals and healthcare systems on the well-being of individuals compared to those who lacked access to such care inspired her to pursue a path where she could directly contribute to people’s health and long-term welfare. Initially, Astear gravitated toward public health, but as her education progressed, she felt a stronger pull toward helping individuals directly. She was eager to offer personalized care and education to patients, channeling her passion into one-on-one interactions where she can provide focused attention and support.
Today, Astear is a certified physician assistant (PA) who is committed to providing culturally competent care. She provides individualized care, is mindful of social determinants of health, and aims to prioritize cultural competence in her practice to ensure that she meets her patients’ diverse needs.
Astear earned her bachelor’s degree in public health science from the University of Maryland. She went on to earn her master of medical science degree with a physician assistant studies specialization from Arcadia University. Before joining Capital Digestive Care, Astear worked as a physician assistant at Maryland Bariatrics in Rockville, MD. There, she provided care to patients undergoing bariatric and general surgery, including preoperative care and counseling as well as postoperative care and support.
“Caring for patients is meaningful to me because it’s a direct way to make a positive impact on their lives. I am able to provide support and guidance during what can be their most vulnerable moments,” Astear said. “As I build a connection with patients and continue following up with them to manage their conditions, knowing that my efforts contribute to their well-being and quality of life is incredibly fulfilling.”
Outside work, Astear cherishes the time she spends with her family. She enjoys being outdoors, exploring nature trails and hiking paths, and she is also passionate about cooking and nutrition.
Languages:
- English
- Tigrinya