Kahli E. Zietlow

Kahli E. Zietlow is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School, where she also serves as the Associate Fellowship Director - Geriatrics and Director of Interprofessional Education. Her academic journey began with a BS in Biology from the University of Michigan (2009), followed by an MD from Duke School of Medicine (2014), and clinical training in internal medicine and geriatrics at Duke University Health Systems and Durham VAMC.

• Education
  • BS in Biology, University of Michigan–Ann Arbor (2009)
  • MD, Duke School of Medicine (2014)
  • Residency, Duke University Health Systems (2014-2017)
  • Geriatrics Fellowship, Duke University Health System (2018)
  • Extended Geriatrics Research Fellowship, Durham VAMC (2019)
  • Medical Education Scholars Program, University of Michigan Medical School (2022)

Her research focuses on guardianship and surrogacy decision-making in patients with dementia, with recent work exploring legal frameworks, ethical implications, and educational strategies. She has developed targeted curricula to improve healthcare providers' confidence in managing guardianship scenarios and investigates how guardianship impacts patient care.

Key trends in her publications include interdisciplinary approaches to dementia care, ethics in medical decision-making, and innovations in geriatric education. Her work spans clinical reviews (e.g., thyroid-cognition links), procedural guidelines (delirium management), and community-based interprofessional interventions.

• Scientific Awards
  • Geriatrics Academic Career Award (GACA), HRSA (2023)

Dr. Zietlow actively mentors across multiple programs, including the University of Michigan Medical School, Internal and Family Medicine Residency, Physician Assistant Program, and Gerontology NP Program. She also contributes to continuing medical education (CME) initiatives, such as the 2024 course on aging in place.

Her collaborations include work with Duke University Health Systems, Durham VAMC, and interdisciplinary teams at Michigan Medicine.