We’re excited to welcome Physician Assistant Jennifer Hilgenberg to Dr. Novikov Wellness and Skin Care!
Jennifer chose medicine early in life, inspired by her brother’s severe asthma and a foster sibling’s grand mal seizures. “I always knew I wanted to be in medicine,” she says. “When I discovered how happy PAs are in their careers, I knew it was the perfect fit.”
She earned her degree from the University of Saint Francis. Jennifer built a 20-year career in patient care, most of those specializing in geriatrics. Additionally, her daily work with elderly patients and wound management in nursing homes and home care sparked her lasting interest in wound care and dermatology.
Jennifer grew up in Massachusetts and spent several years in New York and Indiana for school before returning home. She thrives in a small, mission-driven private practice, where she helps to improve the health of older adults and mentors aspiring medical professionals.
Collaborative approach
She enjoys teaching and feels excited to bring her years of experience to the practice. Jennifer looks forward to sharing her knowledge with scribes, nursing home staff and PAs just starting out, helping them build confidence and develop a patient-centered approach to care.
“The joy of teaching is one of the biggest skills I bring from my previous role,” she explains. “I love helping patients and nursing home staff understand diseases and treatment options—it creates buy-in, which leads to better compliance and outcomes.”
Jennifer takes an active, collaborative approach to care. She ensures every patient feels heard and involved in decision-making. She explains, “Without patient buy-in, treatment plans don’t work.”
For those considering a career as a PA, Jennifer offers honest advice. “It’s the hardest job you’re ever going to love,” she said. “The best part is making connections with patients and helping them in their time of need—but when you care deeply, it is difficult to stop thinking about them when you go home so being a PA is a lifestyle.”
Outside the office, Jennifer lives a busy, family-focused life with her husband and two teenage children. She loves traveling and serving others through her church. Additionally, for the past 20 years she has led medical mission trips to the Dominican Republic, combining her faith and passion for helping others.
We’re thrilled to have Jennifer Hilgenberg on our team. She brings experience, empathy, leadership and an educator’s heart to every patient encounter. It’s easy to book your appointment.