Andy Salyards, Office Manager
From being a merchant marine to a serial entrepreneur in the hospitality industry, Andy has collected an array of experiences that he applies to Refine Dermatology. His focus is on the patients’ experience and improving the processes of the practice.
His goal is to help Refine Dermatology represent what a hospitable medical practice looks like.
- Acknowledge: Welcome people and be responsible with their time
- Attentiveness: Be accessible for patients questions and concerns
- Empathize: Treat others as you want to be treated, nothing less
- Responsiveness: Act with timeliness and clear communication
Along with Dr. Jill, Andy has been blessed to be the father of four boys that allow him to keep playing with toys well into his adulthood. He loves smoking and curing meat and is known for giving away homemade bacon!
Kerstyn Hochadel, Medical Assistant
Kerstyn Hochadel is a Certified Nursing Assistant and Medical Assistant with over 10 years of experience in dermatology. She has experience in all aspects of dermatology including assisting with general dermatology, general dermatologic surgery, and cosmetic procedures. She specifically enjoys working with biologics and coordinating care for patients. She has a desire to help and work with patients of all ages, especially the elderly.
Kerstyn is originally from St. Petersburg, Florida, but has lived in Johnson City and Chattanooga previously throughout the years. Prior to starting at Refine Dermatology, she worked with Dr. Salyards in Florida for 4 years. This experience opened an opportunity for her to follow Dr. Salyards to Knoxville to be a part of her new practice.
She loves spending time with friends and family when possible. She also enjoys hiking, painting, exploring new places, and is an avid reader.
Makayla Hilsinger, Medical Assistant & Front Office
Makayla Hilsinger is a Certified Clinical Medical assistant that has a passion to be the light in patients’ dark times. Her healthcare journey started when she was in high school, where she volunteered for four years at a local hospital in a variety of departments. Makayla then went on to be a medical insurance patient advocate, cancer center department administrator, and eventually a CCMA in dermatology.
Other than being dedicated to quality patient care, Makayla’s particular medical interests are hair loss and cancer screening, monitoring, and treatment. Having alopecia herself, she finds that this connects her to patients on a deeper level and enjoys being a safe space to all.
When not at the office, you can find Makayla with her two daughters- Ophelia and Opal. Spending time outside at any body of water, dancing to music, and sight-seeing animals are a few of their favorite activities to do together.
April Darisaw, Medical Assistant & Front Office
April Darisaw is a Medical Office Assistant with 15 years of experience in the field. She started in the healthcare field in St. Petersburg, Florida with a Retina Specialist and recently moved to Knoxville. She also has 4 years of experience in medical billing. She enjoys being in the healthcare field bringing smiles to patients faces every day!
April is a part of an autism mom group where she gives tips and advice to other moms who also have kids with autism. She enjoys interior decorating, party planning and spending time with her family and friends.
