Accepting new patients

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Mackenzie Carstens, PA-C (she/her)

Accepting new patients

  • Physician Assistant
  • Instructor of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, School of Medicine

Specialty

  • Cardiology

Clinical focus

  • Congenital Heart Disease

Locations and contact

I see patients at
Tall building with the ariel tram to its left
Center for Health & Healing, Building 1

About me

I’m a physician assistant (PA) specializing in valvular heart disease, with a special focus on clinical research.

I care for patients with conditions such as:

My role includes consultations and follow-up visits before and after valve procedures and reviewing cardiac diagnostics like EKGs, echocardiograms and rhythm monitors.

I also support patients enrolled in research studies by monitoring labs, taking a history and performing physical exams.

I love working closely with patients to create care plans that fit their needs and ensure they feel supported every step of the way. I’m also excited by the constant innovation in cardiology research—it’s rewarding to help patients access the latest treatments and technology so they can thrive with their heart health.

I grew up in Tucson, Arizona, which means I’m a lifelong University of Arizona Wildcat fan. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science with a minor in Spanish from Northern Arizona University. Before becoming a PA, I trained as a clinical engineer working with ventricular assist devices (VADs), the total artificial heart, and on an organ procurement team. I earned my master’s degree in physician assistant studies at OHSU (Class of 2022). I first worked in pediatrics, but my heart ultimately pulled me back to cardiology, where I’ve always felt at home.

Outside of work, you’ll often find me on the pickleball court, kickboxing or getting creative in the ceramics studio. I also enjoy spending time with my mini-Aussie and cat, and I’m usually planning my next travel adventure with friends.

Education and training

  • Degrees

    • M.P.A., 2022, Oregon Health & Science University
    • B.S., Northern Arizona University
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Insurance

Before scheduling an appointment

  1. Check your network. If you have health insurance,  call your company to find out if the OHSU Health location or provider you plan to visit is part of your network.
  2. Ask what you will pay. Your insurance company can tell you what your costs are likely to be.

If you schedule an appointment and your health insurance does not include OHSU Health, you may have to pay more than if you go to a provider in your insurance network. 

Visit our billing and insurance page for more information.