Daniel Amato, M.D.
Board Certified: Internal Medicine
While change is sweeping the health care system, one thing remains constant, says Dr. Amato—the importance of focusing on the individual needs of the patient. “My primary responsibility is to provide competent, compassionate and individualized care for each of my patients,” he says.
Dr. Amato earned his medical degree at Oregon Health Science University in 1971, and completed his residency at Providence Portland Medical Center.
When not immersed in medical activities, Dr. Amato takes great interest in military history, as well as Italian-American history and culture. In addition, he is a self-proclaimed “automobile enthusiast.”
Michael Carroll, M.D.
Board Certified: Internal Medicine
Viewing himself as a source of information and care for his patients, Dr. Carroll chose a career in medicine because of the new challenges it continually offers. “I try to empathize with my patients while actively involving them in their own health care,” he says. “I truly enjoy talking to and getting to know the people I treat.”
Dr. Carroll earned his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Medicine in Omaha, Neb. He completed his internship and residency at Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland, and is board certified in internal medicine.
Away from his practice, Dr. Carroll enjoys time with his wife and two daughters. His hobbies include hiking, gardening and shopping for antiques.
Kimberly Herder, M.D.
Board Certified: Internal Medicine
In her medical practice, Dr. Herder stresses the importance of preventative health care to her patients by serving as an educator and advocate. “I have a strong belief in the importance of health maintenance,” she says. “I want to help patients identify potential risk factors in their lives so together we can prevent the onset of illness or disease.”
Dr. Herder, who is board certified in internal medicine, earned her medical degree from the University of Alberta School of Medicine in Edmonton, Alberta. She completed her internship and residency at Baystate Medical Center located in Springfield, Mass.
Dr. Herder was born in Vancouver, British Columbia. Away from her practice, she enjoys skiing, scuba diving, reading and traveling.
James M. Kern, M.D.
Board Certified: Internal Medicine
Dr. Kern chose a career in medicine because of a strong desire to help people with illness and health issues. “I feel my most important role as a physician is to interpret symptoms and put into action a plan for diagnosis and treatment,” he says. “It is important to me to be thorough and compassionate to my patients.”
After receiving a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering at the University of Michigan, Dr. Kern earned his medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine. He completed his internship and residency at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minn. Dr. Kern is board certified in internal medicine.
Born in Buffalo, Dr. Kern is married and has two daughters. He enjoys playing golf, as well as other types of exercise.
Paul Kucera, M.D.
Board Certified: Gynecology Oncology
Dr. Kucera draws on over 20 years of experience in gynecology oncology to provide his patients with compassionate, high-quality medical care. “I emphasize total care for my patients – from pre-op, surgery and chemotherapy through follow-up after treatment has been completed,” he says. “It’s important that I not only provide the medical care, but also the necessary education as patients and their families face a potentially difficult diagnosis.”
Board certified in gynecology, Dr. Kucera earned his medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago. He completed his internship and residency at the University of Rochester Medical Center in Rochester, N.Y., and a gynecologic oncology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine.
Dr. Kucera also serves as director of gynecological oncology research at the Robert W. Franz Cancer Research Center within the Earle A. Chiles Research Institute at Providence Portland Medical Center.
A native of Chicago, Dr. Kucera enjoys woodworking and photography in his spare time. He and his wife, Deborah, have two children.
Chester North, M.D.
Board Certified: Internal Medicine
Dr. Chester North believes his most important role as a physician is to listen to his patients and be a partner in their health care. “My philosophy of care is that care is a partnership between the patient and the physician. The physician advises and educates; the patient decides.”
Dr. North most enjoys building relationships with his patients. “Their trust is my greatest reward,” he says. In his practice, he emphasizes patient education and wants his patients to take an active role in their health care.
Dr. North received his PhD from Oklahoma State University and his medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. He went on to complete his internship, residency and a fellowship in internal medicine as well as a residency in anesthesiology at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland.
Keith Swenson, M.D.
Board Certified: Dermatology, Internal Medicine
Dr. Swenson combines his medical expertise with compassionate care to treat the whole patient. “My goal is to provide each patient with quality medical care,” he says. By presenting himself in a genuinely friendly manner, he is able to put his patients at ease and to better learn how he can help.
Dr. Swenson earned his medical degree at Washington University, St. Louis. He completed residencies in dermatology at Oregon Health & Science University and in internal medicine at Providence Portland Medical Center and is board certified in both specialties.
A photography buff, Dr. Swenson shares his love of nature with patients and staff by displaying his photos in the office.
Paul Yutan, M.D.
Board Certified: Internal Medicine
Dr. Yutan’s commitment to the Providence Core Values of Respect and Compassion is reflected in the care he provides his patients. “I think it’s very important to take the time to listen to my patients, fully explain their medical problems, and answer any questions or concerns they may have,” he says. “I view each person I care for as part of an extended family.”
After receiving a bachelor of science degree in physiological science at the University of California Los Angeles, Dr. Yutan earned his medical degree at St. George's University School of Medicine. He completed his residency and internship in internal medicine at San Joaquin General Hospital in Northern California. Dr. Yutan is board certified in internal medicine.
Away from work, Dr. Yutan spends his time enjoying all that the Oregon outdoors has to offer, particularly hiking and snowboarding. He is fluent in both Spanish and Tagalog.
