For Dana Lingel, MSPAS, PA‑C, her own experience as a patient played a big role in shaping her path into healthcare.
From ages 12 to 18, Dana experienced headaches that lasted for six years, without doctors being able to determine the cause. The experience gave her a firsthand understanding of what it feels like to be the patient sitting on the other side of the exam room.
“I know what it’s like to be poked, tested, examined, and feel vulnerable sitting on that exam table,” Dana said. “That experience inspired me to pursue a career in healthcare.”
Dana is a physician assistant with South Bend Clinic’s Dermatology team. One of her favorite parts of her role is the opportunity to work closely with both her patients and colleagues.
“I enjoy the collaboration, my patient interactions and building relationships with them, and saving lives every single day,” she said.
Dana Lingel, MSPAS, PA‑C
One of Dana’s recent professional highlights was being selected for the inaugural class of Johnson & Johnson Emerging Scholars at the GLIDE 2026 conference.
Away from work, Dana enjoys spending time with her three dogs, playing video games and watching reality television.
As a Dermatology provider, Dana also has a simple reminder for everyone. Sunscreen is important, but how you use it matters, too. “Most people do not apply enough sunscreen to adequately protect themselves in the sun,” she said, adding that sunscreen should be reapplied every 80 minutes to two hours.
Health Topics:
