Shaelynn
Blixt
DO
education
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Residency: Prisma Health-Upstate/University of South Carolina School of Medicine
biography
Dr. Blixt was born and raised in a small town in Montana, where she developed a deep appreciation for the resilience and strength of rural communities. Growing up in an area where access to specialty care was often limited, she saw how geography and limited resources could shape—and sometimes restrict—people’s healthcare journeys. These early experiences sparked her interest in medicine and planted a strong sense of purpose: to become a physician who could help bridge the gap in care for underserved and rural populations.
She earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Rocky Vista University in Southern Utah, where she was drawn to the intersection of clinical medicine and community engagement. During her time there, she gained exposure to a wide range of patient populations across rural and underserved settings in the Mountain West, which deepened her commitment to addressing healthcare disparities. Her training emphasized adaptability, resourcefulness, and the importance of meeting patients where they are—skills that continue to shape her approach to medicine today. She then completed her internal medicine residency at the University of South Carolina in Greenville, where she was involved in a variety of clinical, teaching, and quality improvement initiatives. During residency, she led a project to improve osteoporosis screening in primary care—a project that deepened her interest in system-level solutions to improve population health. She also became increasingly engaged in medical education and mentoring, finding fulfillment in helping learners grow clinically and professionally.
Outside of medicine, she enjoys game nights, trying out new restaurants, and spending time exploring the Pacific Northwest with her family.
Why Rheumatology?
"I was drawn to rheumatology for its unique blend of complexity, diversity, and long-term patient care. I value the field’s intellectual challenges—from navigating multisystem diseases to making difficult diagnoses—and appreciate the opportunity to think both broadly and deeply about a patient’s symptoms. But what resonates most with me is the chance to build lasting relationships with patients and help them manage chronic, often life-altering conditions. I find it deeply rewarding to partner with patients on their journey, improving quality of life through thoughtful, personalized care. For me, rheumatology offers the perfect balance of diagnostic challenge, clinical variety, and human connection."
Why UW?
"I chose the University of Washington for fellowship because of its strong academic foundation, commitment to health equity, and focus on serving the unique needs of the WWAMI region. I was especially drawn to UW’s mission to improve care in rural and underserved areas, which closely aligns with my background and long-standing passion for rural health. The opportunity to train in a program that values outreach, education, and innovation, along with the flexibility to tailor my training to my career goals, was a major factor in my decision.
What stood out most during my interview day—and ultimately sealed my choice—was the genuine warmth and positivity of everyone I met. From faculty to fellows, each person was not only accomplished and passionate about their work but also kind, down-to-earth, and truly happy to be part of the program. That sense of camaraderie, support, and joy in the work environment made me confident that the University of Washington was the right place to grow both personally and professionally."