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Extenders

Katie Bakunas, PA-C

Katie Bakunas is a certified physician assistant. She attended Missouri State University where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training in 2009. She practiced as a graduate assistant athletic trainer at the University of Arkansas while obtaining a Master of Education in Sports Management in 2011. In 2014 she graduated from Eastern Virginia Medical School with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies. Prior to joining Ozark Orthopaedics, she worked in neurosurgery and emergency medicine. She joined Ozark Orthopaedics in 2021 and works alongside Dr. Heinzelmann in the operating room and in clinic providing care to patients with joint reconstructions, arthroscopic procedures, and sports related injuries. Katie lives in Northwest Arkansas with her husband and two sons. They enjoy spending time on the lake and exploring the great outdoors.

Wes McGehee, PA-C

Wes McGehee, PA-C

Wes McGehee is a Certified Physician Assistant at Ozark Orthopaedics, and he has worked as a mid-level practitioner for seven years. Wes attended Mississippi College where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology and his Master of Business Administration. He then completed his Master of Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Alabama.

At Ozark Orthopaedics, Wes works alongside Dr. Mark Miedema treating pain management patients. Specifically, they focus on problems arising from the spine, and provide therapeutic joint injections to help with other musculoskeletal problems when necessary. Wes says what he enjoys most about his work is “uncovering the cause of a patient’s pain or limitation and then developing an appropriate treatment plan that allows them to functionally improve.”

In his leisure time, Wes enjoys hunting, golfing, and any activity that allows him to get out and enjoy God’s creation.

Tanner McGinty, PA-C

Tanner McGinty is a Certified Physician Assistant with an additional certification in Advanced Trauma Life Support. He attended the University of Arkansas where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biomechanics and Kinesiology in 2009. In 2013, he received his Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, TN. For ten years, Tanner has been practicing as a Physician Assistant in Emergency Medicine, and he joined Ozark Orthopaedics in October 2022 where he sees patients at the Ozark Orthopaedic Urgent Care Clinic.

Tanner is passionate about helping patients get back to health and educating them about their injury or condition. When he’s not at work, Tanner loves climbing, trail running, fly fishing, and spending time with his wife and three children.

Brandon Merrill, PA-C

Brandon Merrill is dual certified as a Physician Assistant and Physical Therapist. Brandon is a clinic based Physician Assistant in our Orthopedic Urgent Care.  Brandon works within all Orthopedic Specialities and specializes in diagnosing/triaging of basic and complex orthopedic problems.

A native of the Kansas City area, Brandon received his Master of Physician Studies in 2018 at Missouri State University.  Since this time, he has worked exclusively in an Orthopedic Urgent Care setting.  Prior to completing his Physician Assistant studies, he worked full-time as a Board Certified Physical Therapist in acute care, home health, outpatient orthopedic, and skilled nursing facility settings. Brandon now resides full-time in Northwest Arkansas.  When he isn’t working, you can find him on the Razorback Greenway Trail or any Razorback sporting event.

Hannah Patterson, APRN

Hannah graduated from Arkansas Tech University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing in 2017. She received her Master of Science Degree in Nursing from the University of Central Arkansas in 2020. Hannah is a board-certified nurse practitioner who practices alongside Dr. Jason Pleimann, treating comprehensive foot and ankle conditions. She loves cheering on the Razorbacks, traveling, and being outdoors. Hannah is passionate about helping all patients get back to doing the things they love!

Robert Sanderson, PA-C

Robert Sanderson is dual certified as a Physician Assistant and in Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support. Robert attended the University of Arkansas where he earned his undergraduate degree. He received his Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Harding University in 2010. He joined Ozark Orthopaedics in 2011 and practices under the supervision of Dr. Kris Hanby. Robert specializes in hips and knees. He also works with Dr. Hanby in the OR. Robert currently resides in NWA with his wife and their twins.

Greg Smith, PA, ATC

Greg Smith is dual certified as a Physician Assistant and Athletic Trainer. Greg is a clinic based Physician Assistant striving to provide accessibility and quality of care in Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. Greg works within ALL Orthopaedic Specialities and specializes in conservative spine care.

A native of Fayetteville, Greg received his training in Physician Assistant Studies at George Washington University and graduated among the top of his class in 2013. Prior to pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant, Greg was a collegiate baseball athlete before obtaining a graduate degree in Athletic Training at the University of Arkansas in 2008. He then worked as an Athletic Trainer for Coastal Carolina University for 2 years before matriculation into Physician Assistant school. Greg and his wife Lindsay live in NWA with their daughter, Piper, and son, Walker. They enjoy spending time with family and friends. They both like to stay active and are avid sports fans. GO HOGS!

Haeden Waymack, PA

Bio coming soon.