Meet Our Provider

Col. Shaprina Williams, MD
U.S. Army

What inspired you to pursue a career in health care?

I’ve always wanted to be a pediatrician and also had a strong desire to work with children.  Initially, I pursued a career as a teacher. However, my path evolved as I gained experience working as a high school teacher in a drop-out prevention program. I had the opportunity to work closely with teenagers, some of whom were teenage mothers or engaged in high-risk behaviors like drug use. This experience sparked my passion for adolescent medicine, and I realized that, as a physician, I could make a real difference in helping this population navigate the challenges they face. I was particularly drawn to adolescent and young adult medicine because I felt I could combine the skills I’d gained as a teacher with my medical training to help patients make better decisions and prevent them from engaging in risky behaviors. I wanted to be a physician who not only treats but also educates and empowers young people during such a formative period of their lives.
 

What is your area of expertise, and what do you enjoy most about your work?

I specialize in adolescent and young adult medicine, providing both primary care and subspecialty care for individuals between the ages of 12 and 26. I particularly enjoy supporting my patients through their transition from childhood to adulthood. This is such a rewarding phase to be part of because, as an adolescent medicine provider, you get to play an essential role in guiding patients through critical developmental milestones. Whether it’s helping a teenager with their first independent health decisions or supporting a young adult in managing a chronic condition, the relationships I build with my patients are deeply fulfilling. I love being part of their journey as they grow and mature into independent, responsible adults.
 

How do you ensure a positive patient experience in your care?

To ensure my patients have a positive experience, I approach each one with empathy and treat them the way I would want to be treated. I believe in the importance of active listening, so I make sure to hear my patients’ concerns and address them thoughtfully. I also try to put myself in the shoes of both the patient and their parents to better understand their perspectives and provide the best possible care. Having children myself in the same age group as my patients helps me relate to the challenges they face, which makes it easier to connect and build trust. At the end of the day, I aim to make my patients feel seen, heard, and cared for.
 

Can you share a memorable moment or success story from your practice?

While I can’t pinpoint one single memorable moment, I find great joy in the small things that make a big impact. Sometimes, the things that seem minor to me—such as taking extra time to explain something or offering a little guidance—are the moments that patients and parents express sincere gratitude for. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that I’ve made a positive difference in their lives, even in ways I may not have initially realized. Every time someone expresses appreciation for something I did, it reminds me why I love what I do and why I strive to go above and beyond in my care.
 

What are your interests outside of work?

Outside of work, my family is my top priority. I’m a wife and a mother to four wonderful children—one son and three daughters. They keep me busy, and I truly enjoy spending time with them, whether it's traveling to new places or simply enjoying quiet moments at home. Traveling is something I really value, as it gives us the opportunity to explore new cultures and make lasting memories together.
In addition to family time, I have a love for reading, particularly fictional novels. It's a great way for me to unwind and escape into different worlds. I also have a keen interest in history. I enjoy learning about historical events and figures, as it helps me appreciate the world around me in a deeper way. Overall, balancing family, personal hobbies, and work helps me stay grounded and recharge.