Maya Wiest, MD

Hi, I’m Maya. I was born in Edmonds, WA, but lived along the west coast from Alaska to California. I grew up playing in the frigid Pacific Ocean, searching for crabs and jellyfish, and creating makeshift forts out of our backyard willows.

I went to Gonzaga University, where I received a degree in Exercise Science with a focus on exercise therapy for special populations. I went on to coach boxing for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease and train as an LMP. I later attended St. George’s University, where I developed an interest in wilderness medicine, transcultural medicine, and working with underserved populations.

My kids were thrilled when they heard we were moving to Anchorage. We’re from Wenatchee, WA, which is nestled in a valley east of the Cascades, at the base of Mission Ridge ski area. Never far from a river or lake, we spent many sunny days paddleboarding and swimming. We enjoy discovering new hikes and new recipes. I’ve done some marathons, ultras, and half irons, and am also perfectly happy sitting on the couch doing nothing. I am excited to join the Alaska Family Medicine program in Anchorage because the program is a unique opportunity to develop my professional interests in rural and
wilderness medicine.