Featured Member of the Month (Jan. 2022): Sara Skjonsberg

Sara Skjonsberg BS, RVT, RPhS, graduated from Seattle University's diagnostic Ultrasound Program in 2013. She worked for the University of Washington DE Strandness Jr. Vascular Lab for four years, where she was lucky enough to have extensive venous training with Dr. Mark Meissner, who jump-started her involvement with the American Vein & Lymphatic Society, Society of Vascular Ultrasound, and American Venous Forum. She is currently the chair for the Ultrasound Section of the AVLS, a board member of the IAC Vein Center, past-president of Northwest Vascular Technology Society, and has written multiple textbook chapters and journal articles. She is currently working as the Director of Vascular Ultrasound for Oregon Vascular Specialists in Bend, Oregon.

How and why did you start practicing in the field of vein care?

I was very lucky to complete my training and work at the University of Washington Medical Center, DE Strandness Jr. Vascular Lab for about five years. In my time there, not only did their stellar team of sonographers train me to have incredible critical thinking skills and love everything vascular, but I also had the pleasure of working with Dr. Mark Meissner. Dr. Meissner allowed me to participate in pelvic venograms, observe clinic visits, and he endured countless questions/office discussions. He encouraged me to get my RPhS credential and expand my venous knowledge, which led me to the then ACP, now AVLS, and skyrocketed my passion for venous ultrasound.

When you are not at work, how do you spend your time? 

When not working as a sonographer, I enjoy snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, paddleboarding, camping, and all things outside. My husband and my dog Riley are my best adventure partners and never disappoint. We are lucky enough to live near the mountains and continually get to enjoy the world around us. 

How long have you been a member of the AVLS and why did you decide to join?

I have been a member of AVLS since 2015, and I decided to join after attending my first Annual Congress. I was amazed by the sonographer and provider presentations. They had such a passion for vein care that I knew I wanted to be part of the team and learn as much as I possibly could. 

In what ways has the AVLS helped you as an Allied Health professional?

AVLS has helped my career and life in so many ways. I not only gained the mentorship of senior AVLS sonographers and providers, but I also made lasting friendships that have enriched not only my professional but personal life. I have had amazing mentors who are always only an email or phone call away whenever I have a question or curiosity. I have collaborated with like-minded sonographers from across the nation and world, not only strengthening my vein knowledge but allowing me to share my passion and hopefully inspire a few more vein nerds.  

Any advice for providers new to the field?  

My advice for new providers is to be humble, curious, and respectful. I think we are much stronger as a team and that we all are seeking the best outcome for our patients. Ask questions of each other, respect each person's role on the team and be curious, challenge the typical narrative, and think outside the box. 

What resources does the AVLS provide that would benefit them?

The AVLS has so many resources to take advantage of and really, I think they all play such a powerful role! Annual Congress each year allows us to network in person and learn an amazing amount from all different types of providers. The regional, smaller courses provide a more intimate hands-on setting for learning and allow us to spend more time with each other taking a deeper dive into topics. The Phlebology Journal allows us to stay relevant and keep up on the latest research in our field, and the My AVLS online community (the MAC) allows us to seek immediate opinions and answers from the large network of AVLS members.