Introduction to Multicare Dermatology in Tacoma
Multicare Dermatology in Tacoma offers comprehensive dermatological services, focusing on patient-centered care, prevention, and the management of various skin conditions. The dermatology team is committed to providing exceptional patient care, acting as a trusted medical "home base" for individuals and families seeking long-term health partnerships.
Leading Dermatologists at Multicare Dermatology
Dr. Hirota
Dr. Hirota brings a distinguished career in medicine, beginning his service in the U.S. Air Force in 1976. His early career included roles as a Weather Specialist and Instructor before transitioning to become a Primary Care Physician Assistant. He earned his DO degree with honors from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his Transitional Internship at Fitzsimons Army Medical Center, where he was recognized as the Outstanding Transitional Intern in 1995.
His specialized training in Dermatology was completed at the San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education Consortium in 2000. That same year, he became a Diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology. Dr. Hirota has held significant leadership positions as Chief of Dermatology at several Army medical centers, including Moncrief Army Community Hospital in South Carolina, Evans Army Community Hospital in Colorado, and Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma.
After retiring from 31 years of active duty, Dr. Hirota joined Cascade Eye and Skin Centers. During his tenure at Madigan, he was honored three times as one of the Family Medicine Teachers of The Year and served as an Assistant Professor of Dermatology with the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. He also played a crucial role as a Senior Dermatology Provider for both of the Army's Teledermatology programs. Beyond his medical pursuits, Dr. Hirota is a trained classical guitarist, proficient with 6- and 12-string guitars.
Dr. Susan Sullivan
Dr. Susan Sullivan earned her Bachelor of Arts degree with honors in English and American Literature and Language from Harvard University, where she was also elected to Phi Beta Kappa. She pursued her medical degree at Washington University in St. Louis, completing both her internship in internal medicine and her residency in dermatology at the same institution.
Dr. Sullivan practices at Cascade's Sunrise and University Place locations. Her clinical focus is on general medical dermatology, with a strong emphasis on the prevention and early detection of skin cancer, as well as the management of chronic dermatologic conditions. She is dedicated to providing thorough, patient-centered service.
Prior to joining Cascade, Dr. Sullivan worked for Kaiser Permanente in Modesto, California, for four years. Before that, she managed her own private practice in Richland, Washington, for many years while raising her two sons. Outside of her medical career, Dr. Sullivan is passionate about fitness and literacy. Her athletic interests include swimming, bicycling, running, weight lifting, and yoga.
Dr. Brenda Kodama
Dr. Brenda Kodama attended the University of Hawaii in Honolulu, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree with high honors and was inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society. Following her medical school education, she completed an internship in medicine and subsequently served for several years as a flight surgeon in Germany for the United States Army.
Dr. Kodama completed her dermatology residency training at Fitzsimmons Army Medical Center in Colorado. She is board-certified in dermatology and is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. Her practice encompasses clinical and surgical dermatology, as well as cosmetic and laser procedures.
Outside of her professional life, Dr. Kodama enjoys spending time with her husband Hugh, their three children, and their pug, Mugsy The Pugsy.
Multicare Primary Care Services
Multicare Primary Care offers comprehensive healthcare services for adults and children of all ages. The dedicated teams are committed to delivering exceptional patient care. As a recognized patient-centered medical home, Multicare Primary Care prioritizes individual health needs, supports informed decision-making regarding care and wellness, and provides the necessary tools for patients to actively manage their health.
The Multicare Primary Care team aims to be your trusted, long-term medical partner by establishing a medical "home base" for you and your family to return to year after year. The practice has been recognized as a Patient-Centered Medical Home by the National Committee for Quality Assurance.
Navigating Care: Primary, Urgent, or Emergency
Patients are encouraged to consult a guide to help determine the most appropriate level of care needed, whether it be primary, urgent, or emergency services.
Patient Resources: MyChart
Current patients are encouraged to explore the benefits of MyChart for managing their healthcare. Resources are available to assist patients in setting up their MyChart account.
How to have a MyChart video visit
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