Tehetena Mulugeta, PA

Provider is directly employed by MedStar Health

Tehetena Mulugeta, a dedicated Physician Assistant (PA), provides compassionate and personalized care to gastroenterology (GI) patients at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center. She treats patients both in the hospital and at the GI Clinic, ensuring continuity of care across different settings.

Before joining MedStar Southern Maryland, Tehetena worked as a hospital medicine PA at Mary Washington Hospital in Fredericksburg, Virginia. However, her passion for gastroenterology was ignited even before pursuing her graduate degree, during her time as a medical assistant and scribe in a GI practice. This early exposure laid the foundation for her deep understanding of digestive health and its far-reaching effects on overall well-being.

Tehetena brings a wealth of experience from internal medicine, which reinforces her holistic approach to GI care. She believes in fostering strong patient partnerships, to ensure they have a voice in their treatment plans. “Educating patients helps demystify the ‘why’ behind our practice of evidence-based medicine, so patient can feel informed and empowered,” she says. This approach not only builds trust but also improves adherence to treatment plans.

 Collaboration is another key aspect of Tehetena’s practice. She works closely with her GI colleagues and a team of healthcare providers, particularly when managing patients with coexisting conditions. By leveraging these partnerships, she ensures comprehensive and coordinated care. Her ultimate goal is to help patients not only understand their diagnosis and treatment but also make meaningful lifestyle changes to enhance their quality of life.

Committed to professional excellence, Tehetena is an active member of several leading organizations, including the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the American College of Gastroenterology, and the Gastroenterology & Hepatology for Advanced Practice Providers. Through these affiliations, she stays informed on the latest advancements and best practices in her field, continuously refining her expertise to provide the highest standard of care.