Kate L. Whitelaw, PA-C

/content/dam/www/provider-photos/w/kate-whitelaw/provider-kate-whitelaw-directory-1x.jpg
/content/dam/www/provider-photos/w/kate-whitelaw/provider-kate-whitelaw-directory-2x.jpg
Whitelaw
Kate L. Whitelaw, PA-C

Kate L. Whitelaw, PA-C

  • Physician Assistant, Fred Hutch
  • Teaching Associate, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine

Hematology-Oncology

“I've learned that the best thing I can do for patients is listen.”

— Kate


Tell us about an interaction with a patient that has had an impact on you.

My colleagues and I were caring for a patient who was a huge Seahawks fan. He had recurrent multiple myeloma, a cancer that affects white blood cells, and it was very aggressive. We were doing everything in our power to treat his disease, but we recognized that his time might be short. One of his physicians was able to get him tickets to watch the Seahawks play in the Super Bowl, so we jumped into action. We made sure he had access to care on his trip. We wrote letters so that he could bring IV fluids on the plane, and we adjusted his medication regimen to help him feel better during his travels. Ultimately, he had an amazing time, and we all felt grateful that we could help his dream come true. 

What personal experiences have shaped your approach to care?

When I was in high school, a friend of mine and fellow soccer teammate was diagnosed with lymphoma. It seemed unbelievable: One day she was thriving, ready to play Division I soccer, and then suddenly she was not. I watched as physicians and nurses interceded to make her healthy again. It was then that I knew I wanted to work in oncology. I aim to be a source of support for people in their darkest moments, restoring their health and celebrating with them through that process.

Provider Background

Area of Clinical Practice
Blood cancers

I am a board-certified physician assistant who specializes in treating patients with blood cancers such as leukemias and lymphomas. My clinical expertise includes stem cell transplantation, and I enjoy educating patients about this process. In turn, I hope that you will share your medical story with me. I’ve learned that the best thing I can do for patients is listen. Listening to your symptoms can help lead me to a diagnosis and appropriate treatment, and listening to your fears, frustrations, worries, hopes and reasons for pressing on allows me to get to know you as a person.

Diseases Treated

Languages

English

Education, Experience and Certifications

Undergraduate Degree
San Diego State University

Medical Degree
Emory University School of Medicine

Clinical Trials

We make promising new treatments available to you through studies called clinical trials led by Fred Hutch physicians. Many of these trials at Fred Hutch have led to FDA-approved treatments and have improved standards of care globally. Together, you and your physician can decide if a study is right for you. 

Your Care Team

At Fred Hutch, you receive care from a team of providers with extensive experience in your disease. Your team includes physicians, a patient care coordinator, a registered nurse, an advanced practice provider and others, based on your needs. You also have access to experts like registered dietitians, social workers, acupuncturists, psychiatrists and more who specialize in supporting people with cancer or blood disorders. 

Insurance

Fred Hutch accepts most national private health insurance plans as well as Medicare. We also accept Medicaid for people from Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho. We are working to ensure that everyone, no matter what their financial situation, has access to the care they need.