Meet the Team
Premier Lipedema Clinic leverages 20+ years of European expertise to provide our patients with world-class care, here at home. Premier Lipedema Clinic is the home of TLRS (pronounced tailors), Therapeutic Lipedema Reduction Surgery, the gold standard of surgical care for the treatment of lipedema. Utilizing lymphatic-sparing liposuction, time tested technique, specialized and caring staff, postoperative Lipedema Hybrid Massage and prescriptive medical grade compression garments, TLRS is designed to improve function, reduce pain and stop the progression of Lipedema in our patients. Our clinic’s mission is to tear down the barriers to care so that every Lipedema patient can get the world-class care she deserves. Meet our knowledgeable and supportive team of experts who will guide you on the journey through TLRS so you can realize a new and better normal.
Founder, Medical Director
Daniel Hagerty, MD, MS, RDMS, FACEP. Founder and Medical Director of Premier Lipedema Clinic, Specializing in Therapeutic Lipedema Reduction Surgery (TLRS)
Dr. Hagerty is a board-certified physician who started his career in medicine in 2000. At his Spokane Premier Lipedema Clinic, his caring philosophy of making the “patient first” combined with his passion for detailed, medical excellence have made him a sought-after physician among the thousands of patients he has worked with.
Dr. Hagerty grew up in the Los Angeles area exposed to people, philosophies and cultures in all walks of life. After completing high school he served a two-year church mission in Kentucky. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University, where he served as a laboratory instructor in anatomy, histology and pathology. He decided to pursue a career to become a college professor by enrolling in the Ph.D. program in Physiology and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Arizona on full scholarship. His graduate work specialized in developing artificial blood vessels and wound healing, during which he discovered his passion for clinical medicine and treating patients. As a result, he completed his Master of Science degree and entered medical school at the University of Arizona. After graduating from medical school he transitioned to Cleveland, Ohio where he completed residency in Emergency Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and MetroHealth Medical Center. Fascinated by new technology and how it enhanced patient care, he remained there as faculty and completed a one-year fellowship in Emergency Ultrasound. Since then, Dr. Hagerty has taught clinical ultrasound to physicians at the national level and has been published in medical textbooks used around the world.
In 2008, Dr. Hagerty moved with his wife and three children to Spokane, Washington, where he continued to work in emergency medicine, trauma care and critical care. In addition to this clinical work he served as the medical director for a regional paramedic school, the medical director for local fire departments, president of his medical group and as a consultant in the medicolegal community.
In 2017 Dr. Hagerty opened his own cosmetic surgery practice, Premier Body and Laser. There, he was able to marry his extensive medical, anatomical and physiological education, his passion to learn and his interest in advanced technology to bring Power-Assisted Liposuction to Spokane. Specializing in high yield fat transfers to the breasts and buttocks, Dr. Hagerty developed a reputation for achieving superior results, at less cost. Additionally, Dr. Hagerty differentiated himself as the “Doctor who cares”, as his concierge practice and bedside manner puts patients at ease.
Not long after he opened Premier, a patient with Lipedema asked him if he would be willing to perform liposuction and treat her condition. Not having previously heard of Lipedema nor having any training in its treatment, Dr. Hagerty graciously declined as he did not want to unknowingly hurt her. She continued to return and ask for help. Feeling a sense of duty to provide her with the best of care Dr. Hagerty began to research as much literature as he could find about Lipedema and the best treatment for Lipedema. He was surprised to learn that his equipment, Power-Assisted Liposuction, was one of only two devices recommended for the safe treatment of Lipedema. He attended an FDRS conference and learned more about liposuction treatment and the importance of utilizing Lymphatic-Sparing Liposuction tools, technique and care when treating Lipedema. Wanting to provide the best care to Lipedema patients and recognizing a need for preventive therapeutic surgical treatment for Lipedema in the Pacific Northwest, Dr. Hagerty closed his office, traveled to Germany and spent hundreds of hours training with Dr. Josef Stutz, one of the world leaders in Lipedema treatment and research. Dr. Hagerty returned to the US eager to help women with Lipedema in his community. That was the birth of Premier Lipedema Clinic, a practice dedicated to the early detection, diagnosis and treatment of Lipedema. When he is not in the surgical room or examining women for lipedema, Dr. Hagerty endeavors to collaborate with and teach other providers how to diagnose lipedema and how to support and care for women with lipedema.
Founder, Medical Director
Daniel Hagerty, MD, MS, RDMS, FACEP. Founder and Medical Director of Premier Lipedema Clinic, Specializing in Therapeutic Lipedema Reduction Surgery (TLRS)
Dr. Hagerty is a board-certified physician who started his career in medicine in 2000. At his Spokane Premier Lipedema Clinic, his caring philosophy of making the “patient first” combined with his passion for detailed, medical excellence have made him a sought-after physician among the thousands of patients he has worked with.
Dr. Hagerty grew up in the Los Angeles area exposed to people, philosophies and cultures in all walks of life. After completing high school he served a two-year church mission in Kentucky. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University, where he served as a laboratory instructor in anatomy, histology and pathology. He decided to pursue a career to become a college professor by enrolling in the Ph.D. program in Physiology and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Arizona on full scholarship. His graduate work specialized in developing artificial blood vessels and wound healing, during which he discovered his passion for clinical medicine and treating patients. As a result, he completed his Master of Science degree and entered medical school at the University of Arizona. After graduating from medical school he transitioned to Cleveland, Ohio where he completed residency in Emergency Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and MetroHealth Medical Center. Fascinated by new technology and how it enhanced patient care, he remained there as faculty and completed a one-year fellowship in Emergency Ultrasound. Since then, Dr. Hagerty has taught clinical ultrasound to physicians at the national level and has been published in medical textbooks used around the world.
In 2008, Dr. Hagerty moved with his wife and three children to Spokane, Washington, where he continued to work in emergency medicine, trauma care and critical care. In addition to this clinical work he served as the medical director for a regional paramedic school, the medical director for local fire departments, president of his medical group and as a consultant in the medicolegal community.
In 2017 Dr. Hagerty opened his own cosmetic surgery practice, Premier Body and Laser. There, he was able to marry his extensive medical, anatomical and physiological education, his passion to learn and his interest in advanced technology to bring Power-Assisted Liposuction to Spokane. Specializing in high yield fat transfers to the breasts and buttocks, Dr. Hagerty developed a reputation for achieving superior results, at less cost. Additionally, Dr. Hagerty differentiated himself as the “Doctor who cares”, as his concierge practice and bedside manner puts patients at ease.
Not long after he opened Premier, a patient with Lipedema asked him if he would be willing to perform liposuction and treat her condition. Not having previously heard of Lipedema nor having any training in its treatment, Dr. Hagerty graciously declined as he did not want to unknowingly hurt her. She continued to return and ask for help. Feeling a sense of duty to provide her with the best of care Dr. Hagerty began to research as much literature as he could find about Lipedema and the best treatment for Lipedema. He was surprised to learn that his equipment, Power-Assisted Liposuction, was one of only two devices recommended for the safe treatment of Lipedema. He attended an FDRS conference and learned more about liposuction treatment and the importance of utilizing Lymphatic-Sparing Liposuction tools, technique and care when treating Lipedema. Wanting to provide the best care to Lipedema patients and recognizing a need for preventive therapeutic surgical treatment for Lipedema in the Pacific Northwest, Dr. Hagerty closed his office, traveled to Germany and spent hundreds of hours training with Dr. Josef Stutz, one of the world leaders in Lipedema treatment and research. Dr. Hagerty returned to the US eager to help women with Lipedema in his community. That was the birth of Premier Lipedema Clinic, a practice dedicated to the early detection, diagnosis and treatment of Lipedema. When he is not in the surgical room or examining women for lipedema, Dr. Hagerty endeavors to collaborate with and teach other providers how to diagnose lipedema and how to support and care for women with lipedema.
Practice Administrator
Alyssa is the Practice Administrator and Surgical Care Coordinator for Premier Lipedema Clinic, which you can consider the “den-mom” of the clinic. With a passion for all things clinical, skills in business and administration, as well as her love for taking care of others, Alyssa plays a vital role in Premier’s family. Alyssa has lived most of her life in the Spokane area and feels blessed to live in a community where kindness, compassion and neighborliness is the norm. She is married to her “forever-crush” Jay, and they work as a team to care for their children and pets. Alyssa has also been a Sunday school teacher for 14 years and cannot imagine ever giving it up. She enjoys laughing, singing, dancing, gardening and bright colors. Alyssa earned her undergraduate degree from Whitworth University in Health Sciences and was awarded a graduate degree from Gonzaga University in Business Administration. Coming from a Lipedema family, Alyssa views her work at Premier Lipedema Clinic as a calling. She is proud to work with such a fantastic team, caring for the best patients in the world. Alyssa is delighted to be your personal guide through your lipedema treatment journey, your constant support system, and hands down, your greatest cheerleader!
Practice Administrator
Alyssa is the Practice Administrator and Surgical Care Coordinator for Premier Lipedema Clinic, which you can consider the “den-mom” of the clinic. With a passion for all things clinical, skills in business and administration, as well as her love for taking care of others, Alyssa plays a vital role in Premier’s family. Alyssa has lived most of her life in the Spokane area and feels blessed to live in a community where kindness, compassion and neighborliness is the norm. She is married to her “forever-crush” Jay, and they work as a team to care for their children and pets. Alyssa has also been a Sunday school teacher for 14 years and cannot imagine ever giving it up. She enjoys laughing, singing, dancing, gardening and bright colors. Alyssa earned her undergraduate degree from Whitworth University in Health Sciences and was awarded a graduate degree from Gonzaga University in Business Administration. Coming from a Lipedema family, Alyssa views her work at Premier Lipedema Clinic as a calling. She is proud to work with such a fantastic team, caring for the best patients in the world. Alyssa is delighted to be your personal guide through your lipedema treatment journey, your constant support system, and hands down, your greatest cheerleader!
Administrative Assistant
Kiyahna, Premier’s Administrative Assistant and customer service extraordinaire, is the newest member of our team. Born and raised in Spokane, she resides here with her husband and three children. Family, food, travel and spirituality, are of high importance to Kiyahna. Her special interests include poetry and music composition. She is also very passionate about cooking and is in the process of creating a cookbook, as well as a holistic binder for natural healing remedies.
A consummate professional amongst medical admins, Kiyahna is known for the high regard she shows patients. You will not be disappointed when Kiyahna is assisting you. Additionally, having worked previously for Premera Blue Cross and having knowledge of the internal workings of insurance companies, Kiyahna is a pivotal member of Premier’s Insurance Assistance Program, spending a portion of every day advocating for our patients to their insurance. Having earned her Bachelor’s Degree in business management and administration, Kiyahna is excited about using all she has learned to make a difference in the lives of those she encounters and is delighted to join Premier.
Administrative Assistant
Kiyahna, Premier’s Administrative Assistant and customer service extraordinaire, is the newest member of our team. Born and raised in Spokane, she resides here with her husband and three children. Family, food, travel and spirituality, are of high importance to Kiyahna. Her special interests include poetry and music composition. She is also very passionate about cooking and is in the process of creating a cookbook, as well as a holistic binder for natural healing remedies.
A consummate professional amongst medical admins, Kiyahna is known for the high regard she shows patients. You will not be disappointed when Kiyahna is assisting you. Additionally, having worked previously for Premera Blue Cross and having knowledge of the internal workings of insurance companies, Kiyahna is a pivotal member of Premier’s Insurance Assistance Program, spending a portion of every day advocating for our patients to their insurance. Having earned her Bachelor’s Degree in business management and administration, Kiyahna is excited about using all she has learned to make a difference in the lives of those she encounters and is delighted to join Premier.
Surgical Assistant
Caitlin is Dr. Hagerty’s surgical assistant and right-hand man during the med spa’s Spokane liposuction procedures. Caitlin is a Spokane native and comes from several generations of medical family; she began working for her father’s OB/GYN practice and volunteering in the emergency room as a teenager, and progressed to working as an ER Tech after college. She is an alumna of both Gonzaga Prep and Gonzaga University, where she presided over the Social Dance Club while spending her spare time as a salsa and tango DJ. Caitlin currently works as an ER technician when she is not DJing in the Premier procedure room (also known as Club Hagerty) and has now traded in her Latin dance high heels for dance parties in her living room with her husband and two small, spicy, delightful children, who keep Caitlin busy enough to forget what having real hobbies was like. Caitlin delights in working hard for people she cares about, and loves being able to connect with her patients and support them through the remarkable liposuction process.
Surgical Assistant
Caitlin is Dr. Hagerty’s surgical assistant and right-hand man during the med spa’s Spokane liposuction procedures. Caitlin is a Spokane native and comes from several generations of medical family; she began working for her father’s OB/GYN practice and volunteering in the emergency room as a teenager, and progressed to working as an ER Tech after college. She is an alumna of both Gonzaga Prep and Gonzaga University, where she presided over the Social Dance Club while spending her spare time as a salsa and tango DJ. Caitlin currently works as an ER technician when she is not DJing in the Premier procedure room (also known as Club Hagerty) and has now traded in her Latin dance high heels for dance parties in her living room with her husband and two small, spicy, delightful children, who keep Caitlin busy enough to forget what having real hobbies was like. Caitlin delights in working hard for people she cares about, and loves being able to connect with her patients and support them through the remarkable liposuction process.
Licensed Massage Therapist
Tara was born and raised in the Spokane Valley and loves living in the PNW because of the hiking, biking and boating opportunities she experiences with her two daughters she calls her best friends. Tara has always struggled with migraine headaches and found that massage was the one thing that could bring her the most relief from chronic pain. She fell in love with the modality of massage, and its benefits, so much so that she became a massage therapist. Her greatest desire is to help others find relief from pain and stress as she experienced herself. She has a love for all people and says nothing makes her feel happier than to know her patients feel loved, taken care of and find pain relief on their wellness journey. Her special training and technique in Lymphatic Massage is a vital part of the Premier experience and results. Tara has a very gentle touch, a kind heart, a great listening ear and is a perfect addition to the Premier Body and Laser family.
Licensed Massage Therapist
Tara was born and raised in the Spokane Valley and loves living in the PNW because of the hiking, biking and boating opportunities she experiences with her two daughters she calls her best friends. Tara has always struggled with migraine headaches and found that massage was the one thing that could bring her the most relief from chronic pain. She fell in love with the modality of massage, and its benefits, so much so that she became a massage therapist. Her greatest desire is to help others find relief from pain and stress as she experienced herself. She has a love for all people and says nothing makes her feel happier than to know her patients feel loved, taken care of and find pain relief on their wellness journey. Her special training and technique in Lymphatic Massage is a vital part of the Premier experience and results. Tara has a very gentle touch, a kind heart, a great listening ear and is a perfect addition to the Premier Body and Laser family.
Licensed Master Esthetician
A licensed Master Esthetician, Amanda is the lead laser technician at Premier Body and Laser, Premier Lipedema Clinic’s sister company. With 12+ years of diversified experience in the medical spa and hospitality industry, when not behind a laser, Amanda assists as a care coordinator in reception. Also a trained surgical technician, you may also find Amanda assisting Dr. Hagerty in the procedure room while he performs TLRS. Amanda has a warm and caring spirit, which puts patients at ease. Amanda is a proud mom to her son who is her greatest joy. When not working, Amanda enjoys hanging out with loved ones, especially at her family’s lake property on Lake Pend Oreille, cooking, and traveling. Amanda is so grateful to be a part of Premier Lipedema Clinic’s expert team and serve their patients with the exceptional attention they deserve.
Licensed Master Esthetician
A licensed Master Esthetician, Amanda is the lead laser technician at Premier Body and Laser, Premier Lipedema Clinic’s sister company. With 12+ years of diversified experience in the medical spa and hospitality industry, when not behind a laser, Amanda assists as a care coordinator in reception. Also a trained surgical technician, you may also find Amanda assisting Dr. Hagerty in the procedure room while he performs TLRS. Amanda has a warm and caring spirit, which puts patients at ease. Amanda is a proud mom to her son who is her greatest joy. When not working, Amanda enjoys hanging out with loved ones, especially at her family’s lake property on Lake Pend Oreille, cooking, and traveling. Amanda is so grateful to be a part of Premier Lipedema Clinic’s expert team and serve their patients with the exceptional attention they deserve.
Licensed Master Therapist
Carrie was born and raised in Spokane Valley, WA. A natural musician accomplished in piano and singing, Carrie is a shining star. Extremely empathetic, Carrie loves to laugh and enjoys the sweet side of life. Carrie lives with her fur baby, a Pomeranian mix, Maxine. Touch is Carrie’s love language. When young, she enjoyed giving and receiving massages from family members. Growing up with muscle tension in her upper back and neck, she found relief in massage. Having always been drawn to helping others, Carrie found that massage therapy was her preferred method of service. She became a licensed massage therapist in 2015 while living in Seattle. Watching loved one’s battle lymphoma, Carrie became fascinated with the lymphatic system, becoming certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage. Carrie now is certified in MLD for lymphedema, Post-op Recovery MLD, and licensed for Myofascial Release, Prenatal Massage, Swedish Massage and Deep Tissue Massage. With a love of learning new techniques and modalities, patients seek out Carrie for her customized approach, strong hands and joyful heart.
Licensed Master Therapist
Carrie was born and raised in Spokane Valley, WA. A natural musician accomplished in piano and singing, Carrie is a shining star. Extremely empathetic, Carrie loves to laugh and enjoys the sweet side of life. Carrie lives with her fur baby, a Pomeranian mix, Maxine. Touch is Carrie’s love language. When young, she enjoyed giving and receiving massages from family members. Growing up with muscle tension in her upper back and neck, she found relief in massage. Having always been drawn to helping others, Carrie found that massage therapy was her preferred method of service. She became a licensed massage therapist in 2015 while living in Seattle. Watching loved one’s battle lymphoma, Carrie became fascinated with the lymphatic system, becoming certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage. Carrie now is certified in MLD for lymphedema, Post-op Recovery MLD, and licensed for Myofascial Release, Prenatal Massage, Swedish Massage and Deep Tissue Massage. With a love of learning new techniques and modalities, patients seek out Carrie for her customized approach, strong hands and joyful heart.
Human Relations Director
Rachelle Hagerty is the Human Relations Director, Office Manager, and co-visionary of Premier Lipedema Clinic. Rachelle met and married Dr. Hagerty in 1995, just before he finished his undergraduate work. She has worked at times over the years as a financial administrator while focusing on her highest priority: raising their three children. Her greatest joy in life comes from her family where most of her energy and time are committed. However, she still finds time and fulfillment in community and church service, participation in her kids’ school activities, genealogy, fitness and travel adventures with her family when time allows. Just a few years ago as her kids were getting older, Rachelle went back to school and fulfilled her goal of graduating with a Bachelor’s degree. Rachelle is excited to now work side by side with her husband at their Spokane medical spa, experiencing the joy of patient care that Dr. Hagerty has loved for so many years.