It's easy to focus on the basics when evaluating your doctor. Did they go to medical school? Are they in your insurance plan's network? Do they have a good reputation with patients and the medical community? These questions are an important part of choosing and building a relationship with your physician, but we also believe knowing more about your physician leads to better communication about your healthcare! At CSA Surgical Center, we want you to have a familiar face behind the stethoscope. It can make all the difference to your quality of care!
- When did you know you wanted to be in the medical field, specifically Vascular surgery?
I have known I wanted to be in medicine since middle school sometime. Like many, I was exposed due to illness in a close friend and decided to pursue medical school so I could help others and make a difference. I didn't decide I wanted to be a surgeon until 3rd year of medical school when rotations allow you to try out different specialties of medicine. Surgery is logical, hands-on problem solving and allows you to see results in real time while also developing relationships with patients over time.
- What is your favorite charity and why?
My favorite charity organization is the Make-a-Wish Foundation. My husband works closely with the organization and we've gotten to see firsthand the kind of amazing impact they can have for a child and even an entire family at an otherwise terrible time.
- What is one item you couldn't live without?
Our friends and family are scattered all over the country, our calendars are busy and there is just no replacement for that ability to instantly connect with people and get information at the tips of your fingers. For better or worse, I don't feel fully dressed without my phone around.
- What is your favorite food? What did you hate eating as a kid?
My favorite food is a spicy chicken sandwich from Chick-fil-a. I grew up near the birthplace of Chick-fil-a, so it's a little bit nostalgic for me. To this day, I hate all mayonnaise!
- Which was your favorite Birthday you celebrated and why?
This one is controversial in my house, but I actually met my husband in college on my 22nd birthday, so I will have to go with that one!
- What is your hidden talent?
I can fall asleep just about anywhere but will instantly wake up to any alarm, pager, kid crying etc.
- What was your first job? What has been your favorite job?
My first job was working in retail in a clothing store in high school. I'm hoping this [my current job] will be my favorite job!
- What is your next bucket list item?
My husband and I are planning a trip to Alaska because we have both always wanted to see it. I have always wanted to see the glaciers, go whale watching and try dog sledding!
- What is your favorite way to spend your free time?
Hot yoga, cooking, and reading.
- What is the career highlight you are most proud of?
Honestly, I think I am most proud of my graduation from residency. My folks teased me a bit for having yet another graduation, but this was really the culmination of all the others.
- If you could instantly become an expert in something, what would it be?
I wish I could instantly become an expert in nutrition and fitness. It's something we are constantly trying to educate ourselves on, both for ourselves and our patients, but there is so much more useful and important information out there that has the potential to make us all healthier.
- What was your first car? What is your dream car?
My first car was a dark green 1997 Isuzu Rodeo. It had the acceleration of a sailboat, but I loved it. I think my dream car at this point is just something with 4-wheel drive – nothing fancy!
- Where is your happy place?
On a beach in the sunshine, reading a good book.
BONUS Questions!
- What is your all-time favorite song and why?
"Hooked on a Feeling" by Blue Swede (1974). This was my wedding song and will always brighten my day.
- What TV character would you play and why?
I would be the chairman/host of Iron Chef: America. Don't laugh. He is cheesy and ridiculous on a show that actually has incredible chefs. He gets to pick the ingredients and eat the food without having to actually judge the food. It's the perfect gig and I LOVE cooking shows.
- What is your favorite holiday and why?
My favorite holiday is Christmas. It's a huge deal on both sides of our family with a ton of different traditions we have blended together – a Clark Griswald-worthy light display and SO MUCH FOOD. Last year, my husband melted a light switch, he put up so many lights. Most importantly now, our daughter is 4 years old and just at the perfect age where everything about Christmas is magical. The whole family just wants to help make it awesome for her!
Dr. Sarah Severance joined Columbia Surgical Associates in 2022 after completing her Vascular surgery residency training at Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, Indiana. Her vascular surgery encompasses aneurysms, carotid disease and diseases of the arteries and veins. Dr. Severance is from Sugar Hill, GA and lives with her husband, who is a mid-Missouri native from Jefferson City. In her free time, she loves being with her family and getting outside to relax and play with her daughter.