I am Danielle Ortega, a board-certified Physician Assistant. I am Diné and I grew up on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona. I completed my undergraduate education at Fort Lewis College and completed my Physician Assistant studies at Western Michigan University. My goal for being a PA has always been to serve and empower Native American communities through evidence-based medicine. 

Over the last few years, I have practiced in both Urgent Care and Occupational Medicine settings, and when the opportunity arose to join the Southern Ute Health Center as a primary care provider, I seized the opportunity.  I have been with the Southern Ute Health Center since August 2025. 

In the clinic, I see patients of all ages for acute and chronic healthcare management by creating treatment plans, prescribing medication, and placing referrals to specialty offices when needed. I am highly motivated to advocate for well-being through preventative services which include healthcare screenings, health education, and annual examinations. I look forward to building relationships with my patients and colleagues as we all work together for a healthier future. 

I have so much gratitude for the trust patients and families provide to me to care for them and their loved ones in the most vulnerable of times.  I do feel that through my work I can make a positive impact on the lives of the people I serve.    

When I am not at work, I enjoy hiking, traveling, working out, and watching movies with my family and friends.