Rebecca P. Petersen

Rebecca P. Petersen is an Associate Professor of Surgery at the University of Washington School of Medicine and a board-certified general surgeon. She serves as Program Director for the General and Preliminary Surgery Residency Program and contributes to educational oversight as a member of the Clinical Competency Committee and Annual Program Review Committee. Her clinical practice focuses on minimally invasive and robotic surgery at UW Medicine's Surgical Services and Hernia Center.

Education and Training:

• Medical Doctorate, Oregon Health & Science University (2002)
• Master of Science in Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health (2000)
• Minimally Invasive Surgery Fellowship, University of Washington (2011)
• General Surgery Residency, Duke University Medical Center (2009)
• Research Fellowship in Thoracic Oncology, Duke University Medical Center (2006)
• Internship in General Surgery, Duke University Medical Center (2003)

Dr. Petersen's research focuses on surgical outcomes, quality improvement, and disorders like GERD, paraesophageal hernias, and achalasia. Her clinical expertise spans advanced laparoscopy, gastrointestinal surgery, and complex hernia repair, including sports and chronic groin pain. She emphasizes patient-centered care, incorporating holistic decision-making and transparent communication.

Her publications highlight trends in minimally invasive surgical techniques, pandemic-era medical education, and Delphi-driven research prioritization in gastrointestinal surgery. Recent collaborative studies examine abdominal wall reconstruction outcomes and standardized research agendas.

Scientific Honors:

• Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)

Dr. Petersen actively contributes to surgical education and clinical governance while maintaining a high volume of patient consultations. Her work bridges clinical innovation with epidemiological rigor, reflected in her dual credentials as a surgeon and epidemiologist.