Karen Damgaard, PA-C is a Flagstaff native. Born and raised in Flagstaff, she has always returned because she considers Flagstaff home. Karen earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. She later went to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology with a minor in Pre-med studies and Chemistry at Northern Arizona University. Prior to earning her Masters degree in Physician Assistant Studies at Idaho State University in Pocatello, Idaho, Karen worked for several years as a medical assistant in several private practices settings as well as a community health care facility. As a PA, Karen has spent the last 10 years serving the medical needs of the uninsured, underinsured, and privately insured people of Northern Arizona by continuing her work in a community health care center. She is excited to join the team at Flagstaff Family Care and looks forward to the challenges that lie ahead. Karen enjoys the field of family medicine because it allows her to practice medicine in a wide variety of areas while interacting with patients of all ages. Her greatest reward from practicing medicine is learning from her patients and watching them achieve optimal health.

In her spare time, Karen enjoys spending time outdoors and training for half-marathons, marathons and century bike rides. She also enjoys traveling, reading a good book and relaxing with her family, friends and dog.