Andrew Heiner, MD
“After decades of practicing GI medicine, what I enjoy most is that I’m able to achieve my goal of providing meaningful help to people in need. Quite often, people are surprised that relief and improvement in their quality of life are achievable. In my experience, most people can see significant improvement in their GI symptoms. But providing that difference means being dedicated to doing things as well as they can be done. I approach every person who puts their trust in me as I would a loved one. I pay attention to the details. I help put them at ease. And I truly listen. Experience has shown me that patients will almost always tell me enough to make an accurate diagnosis, which is where medical excellence — and appropriate and successful care — begin.”
Fellowship: Gastroenterology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
Residency: Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
Internship: Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
MD: University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
BS: Brigham Young University, Provo, UT
Hospital Affiliations: Alta View Hospital, Lone Peak Hospital, Riverton Hospital
R. Kyle Barnett, MD
“Gastroenterologists face a number of challenges in their daily routine, and that certainly contributed to my wanting to become a GI specialist. I enjoy a good challenge… and the rewards of being able to have a direct and positive impact on how people feel and on the quality of the lives they lead. For more than two decades, I’ve enjoyed what I do. A big part of this is knowing that it is important and does make a difference, which is why I strive always to provide the very highest level of care for each and every person I see. I try to understand what each individual is dealing with. Then I start building a relationship of trust and genuine compassion. The best care and outcomes depend on both physician and patient being personally invested in making sure things are done thoroughly, conscientiously and correctly.”
Fellowship: Gastroenterology, Scott & White Memorial Hospital, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Temple, TX
Residency: Internal Medicine, University of Utah Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT
Internship: Internal Medicine, University of Utah Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT
MD: Texas Tech University School of Medicine, Lubbock, TX & El Paso, TX
Undergraduate Study: Biology, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
Member: American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterological Association, American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Hospital Affiliations: Alta View Hospital, Lone Peak Hospital, Riverton Hospital
Christopher S. Cutler, MD
Your digestive health is a vital component of your overall health, comfort, and physical and mental well-being. Whether a patient feels perfectly healthy and visits me for a screening colonoscopy or has digestive difficulties, as a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist I apply my extensive experience, training, and expertise and the most recent advances in my field to a thoughtful assessment and diagnosis of each individual. We will discuss “conventional” medical approaches and complementary “alternative” approaches to determine the best options for you. In many cases — as in screening with colonoscopy — early intervention and treatment can prevent the development of disease.
Gastroenterology is especially rewarding because my patients benefit from my knowledge, experience, and use of the latest research and technology in this quickly-evolving medical specialty. For my patients with digestive disorders, I can prescribe a course of action which provides immediate relief, often restoring patients to symptom-free, normal lives. It is gratifying for me when, several times each day, patients say to me, “If only I had known the exam (or treatment) would be this easy, I would have made an appointment with you a long time ago.”
Fellowship: Gastroenterology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN
Residency: Internal Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
Internship: Internal Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
MD: Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
BS: Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Steven G. Desautels, MD
“I became a physician for the simple reason that I wanted to do something for others, to make a difference in their lives. With disorders of the digestive tract, people’s lives are changed in a very fundamental way. Pain. Discomfort. Irregular habits. And a wide variety of symptoms that range from unpleasant and embarrassing to disruptive and debilitating. These are people who truly need help… and an improved quality of life. This is my motivation as a physician, and it’s the commitment I make to everyone in my care.”
Fellowship: Gastroenterology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
Residency: Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
Internship: Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
MD: University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
BS: Microbiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Member: American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterological Association
David Schmidt, MD
“My goal as a physician is to provide the highest quality of care to every one of my patients. There is, of course, much that goes into achieving this objective. Skill. Knowledge. Capability. And dedication. I believe the best care is that which is delivered with a genuine compassion for each person’s individual needs, health and life. For me, this starts by listening. I need to know what’s going on, how it affects you, what your concerns and sensibilities are and all the other things that are intertwined with your gastrointestinal problems. But it’s also key to being truly present and involved in your care and to being a partner in helping you get back to what’s important: living — and enjoying — your life.”
Fellowship: Gastroenterology, Lakenau Hospital, Wynnewood, PA
Residency: Internal Medicine, Lakenau Hospital, Wynnewood, PA
MD: Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
BA: Biology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT
Member: American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterological Association, American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, American Medical Association
Hospital Affiliations: Alta View Hospital, Lone Peak Hospital, Riverton Hospital
James M. Stewart, MD
“As a gastroenterologist, I believe that gastrointestinal health and well-being are critical to enjoying a healthy lifestyle, and all that Utah has to offer. After completing my gastroenterology training at the Banner Good Samaritan/ VA program in Phoenix, Arizona, I am pleased to start practicing at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology in Sandy, Utah and will be serving patients across the Wasatch Front. My special interests include colorectal cancer prevention, GERD, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and I’ve done research in obesity-related liver disease and other gastrointestinal cancers. After losing family to gastrointestinal cancers, I am dedicated to promoting screenings for early detection of colorectal and esophageal cancer.”
Fellowship: Gastroenterology, Banner Good Samaritan/ VA Hospital-Phoenix, AZ
Residency: Internal Medicine, University of California, San Diego
Internship: Internal Medicine Residency Program, University of California, San Diego
Doctor of Medicine: University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
Michael Weaver, MD
I take pride in providing care to the patient as a whole by actively listening to each one of their concerns. I use my extensive education, training, and expertise to provide the most current, evidence-based care available in the field of gastroenterology, providing a positive impact on the way patients feel.
I have completed specialty training in Therapeutic Endoscopy and specialize in pancreas and biliary disorders as well as cancer of the GI tract, esophageal disorders, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and liver disorders.
Putting the patient’s needs first and providing compassionate, evidence-based care are my goals.
Advanced Endoscopy Fellowship: Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 2021
Fellowship: Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 2020
Residency: Internal Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 2017
Internship: Internal Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 2014
MD: Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 2013
Undergraduate Study: BS, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 2009
Specialty: Gastroenterology, therapeutic endoscopy
Board Certification: American Board of Internal Medicine- certified 2016
Awards: Alpha Omega Alpha, Alpha Sigma Nu, Resident of the year award 2017, Knowlton Incentive for Excellence Award, University of Illinois Bronze Tablet
Mark A. Jensen, DO
I approach medicine as a collaboration between patient and provider. Healthcare is continually becoming more personalized – one treatment does not fit all. We have multiple treatment avenues for health maintenance and disease prevention. In addition, the health insight of each patient provides a valuable resource that should not be ignored. My aim is to offer progressive care which is tailored to the specific needs of individual patients.
The most effective care is that which inhibits disease from ever becoming reality. As a gastroenterologist, I am especially interested in colorectal cancer prevention through high-quality screening colonoscopy and the management of pre-cancerous lesions.
At the same time, the successful management of active illness is life altering. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, liver disease, and motility disorders can be debilitating. I am excited to assist these patients in living their lives without the restraints of gastrointestinal ailments.
Fellowship: Gastroenterology Fellowship, Beaumont Farmington Hills Hospital, Farmington Hills, MI, 2021
Residency: Internal Medicine Residency, Beaumont Farmington Hills Hospital, Farmington Hills, MI 2018
DO: Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, DO 2015
Undergrad Study: BS, University of Michigan 2009
May Marschner, PA-C
“As a PA working in Gastroenterology, my goal is to work with the doctors, medical staff, and our patients to help deliver the best care possible. I think there is a lot of overlap between GI and other areas of medicine, so while I focus on GI complaints, I still try to keep the big picture in mind for overall health and wellness.
“I strive to educate patients, answering their questions, and make sure they are up to date on preventative screenings, like colonoscopies. I understand gastrointestinal problems can make life challenging and can be embarrassing. My goal is to treat, manage, and ideally cure the problems patients face, all in the effort to improve their quality of life and to ‘get back on the dance floor’, as Dr. Heiner likes to say. I am fully trained in Gastroenterology, and in an ever-evolving field, I read the latest research and am in constant communication with my supervising doctors. Together, we create individualized care plans so that our patients receive the best treatment possible – and get back to enjoying life!”
Undergraduate Study: BA, Art (Painting/Digital Video), Rhodes College, Memphis, TN
Post-Bacc. Study: University of New Orleans, New Orleans, LA
Graduate Study: Masters, Physician Assistant Studies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
SCOTT MOFFITT, PA-C
Whether treating common conditions, such as heartburn, or more complicated processes, like Crohn’s disease, Scott’s patient care philosophy is the same: consider the whole patient, not just the symptoms, then find the best treatment plan for that individual. Approaching treatment from multiple angles, Scott considers medications, imaging, labs, procedures, diet, exercise, and mindfulness when developing a plan. He believes this comprehensive approach ensures the best outcomes in overall health and wellbeing.
Scott’s natural curiosity leads him to constantly investigate new research and practices in the field of gastroenterology that may benefit his patients.
A Utah native, Scott enjoys the outdoor activities that our state offers. Skiing, backpacking, camping and travel are all high on the fun list.
Graduate: Master of Health Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Duke University
Undergraduate: B.S. in Biology, University of Utah
Recognition: Pi Alpha National Honor Society for Physician Assistants inductee
Rachel Hansen, PA-C
Rachel’s focus is to help her patients achieve their own health goals by providing them with skilled, thorough, and compassionate care. She strives to listen to her patients and think outside the box when creating treatment plans. She believes that it is important to consider both conventional and alternative treatments, taking into consideration her patients’ preferences.
Rachel promotes preventative lifestyle measures that can help a patient enjoy health now and avoid disease in the future. She believes that focusing on diet, exercise, and sleep can help patents take control of their health and love the life they lead.
Rachel feels special compassion for patients who struggle with chronic GI issues. She is eager to find the source of the problem and do all she can to help her patients heal.
Master’s: Physician Assistant Studies, Northern Arizona University
Undergraduate: Medical Laboratory Science, Brigham Young University
Board Certifications: Physician Assistant, Medical Laboratory Scientist
Memberships: American Society of Clinical Pathology
Recognition: NAU Outstanding Capstone Award, 2020, Banner Good Catch Award, 2017
Ayn Larson, PA-C
I am a physician assistant with over six years’ experience in GI and hepatology. I have had the opportunity to work with patients with varying levels of disease severity in both the clinic and hospital settings. I have a passion for helping patients manage and overcome liver disease. I was part of Denver’s liver transplant program, and continue to treat patients with liver disease, as well as General Gastroenterology issues.
I greatly enjoy the privilege of being welcomed into a patient’s care journey. Living with and managing chronic disease can be a significant burden for patients and caretakers. I enjoy the opportunity to aid in their healthcare needs. I hope to simplify the care process to provide informed and sensitive care to all patients.
Master’s: Physician Assistant Studies, Salus University-Masters 2014
Undergraduate: Bachelor of Exercise Science, Brigham Young University 2011
Specialty: Gastroenterology, Transplant Hepatology
Board Certifications: Physician Assistant
Awards: Pi Alpha honor society member, Salus 2013 and 2014 class president
Whitney Christian, FNP-C
Remembering that each patient has their own story helps to connect and truly listen. It’s through this process that a strong and caring rapport is forged. The relationship between provider and patient should be unified in order to accomplish a desired goal together.
Whitney is a Family Nurse Practitioner who specializes in gastroenterology. Along with her nursing experience at Granite Peaks, Whitney’s eight years of extensive trauma and emergency department experience has given her exceptional skills in assessment and communication, addressing each patient’s concerns and putting together a plan of care.
Graduate: Chamberlain University – MSN, FNP – Graduated in 2022
Undergraduate: California State University, San Marcos – Accelerated BSN program – Graduated in 2012
Undergraduate: Vanguard University of Southern California – BA in education – Graduated in 2009
Recognition: AANP Board Certified, Graduated with honors in both undergraduate degrees
Alexandra Morgan, FNP-C
Alex assesses and treats patients with a holistic approach aimed at creating individualized treatment plans while keeping in mind the desired goals of each patient. She values the importance of a caring and open-minded attitude while treating patients in a potentially vulnerable situation. She works closely with her team of GI doctors and medical staff to ensure exceptional care is provided.
Alex, originally from New Orleans, LA, is a board-certified family nurse practitioner specializing in gastroenterology. She has over 4 years of experience in fast-paced, demanding healthcare environments which include emergency care and outpatient surgical care. She has recently loved working as a Granite Peaks registered nurse in the endoscopy procedure center. Alex is dedicated to providing safe patient-centric care while striving to act as a trusted resource within the healthcare setting.
In her free time, Alex loves traveling with her spouse, reading, cheering on the Ole Miss Rebels and New Orleans Saints, hiking, and attending concerts.