At the heart of exceptional digestive healthcare at The Boot Doctor website is our dedicated team of specialists. We are proud to introduce the professionals committed to providing you with comprehensive and compassionate care. Among our esteemed providers is Dr. Vasantha Pai, a leading gastroenterologist and hepatologist, widely recognized as the “Pai Doctor” by his patients for his expertise and patient-centered approach.
Vasantha Pai, MD: Your Experienced “Pai Doctor” in Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dr. Vasantha Pai, MD, has been a trusted name in Gastroenterology and Hepatology in Belleville, IL, since 1998. Board-certified in both Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Dr. Pai brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his practice. His medical journey began at Kasturba Medical College in India, followed by extensive practice in the United Kingdom where he earned membership to the prestigious Royal College of Physicians, London. Dr. Pai further honed his expertise through a Gastroenterology fellowship at the State University of New York, Brooklyn, completing his training in 1998.
Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Pai is dedicated to medical education, serving as a clinical assistant professor at St. Louis University and a valued member of their voluntary teaching faculty. His commitment to teaching has been recognized by the residents of the St. Louis University family practice program, who have honored him with the “faculty of the year” award on multiple occasions. Patients appreciate Dr. Pai not only for his deep understanding of digestive health but also for his warm and approachable manner, solidifying his reputation as the caring “pai doctor”.
Away from his professional life, Dr. Pai cherishes his role as a husband and father. With his two sons pursuing careers on the coasts, he values spending quality time with family and friends. His personal interests include staying informed with the news and enjoying movies.
Ashley McIntyre, MSN, FNP-C: Nurse Practitioner Focused on Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Ashley McIntyre, MSN, FNP-C, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner who earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Barnes Jewish College of Nursing and her Masters in Nursing from Maryville University. Certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, Ashley is also a member of the Sigma Theta Tau honors society and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, reflecting her commitment to excellence in nursing.
Ashley’s background includes experience in the surgical ICU step-down unit at Barnes Jewish Hospital, providing her with a strong foundation in patient care. She is enthusiastic about her career focus in Gastroenterology, particularly in the treatment and management of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Her passion for this area of gastroenterology makes her a valuable asset to our team, offering dedicated support for patients with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Ashley enjoys quality time with her husband and their two dogs. She also has a love for travel and cherishes moments spent with her family. Interestingly, Ashley has an identical twin sister who is also a Nurse Practitioner in Florida, highlighting a family dedication to healthcare.
Katherine Hill, MMS, PA-C: Physician Assistant with Hospital Medicine Experience
Katherine Hill, MMS, PA-C, is a certified Physician Assistant who brings a strong academic background to her role. She graduated from Saint Louis University with a Bachelor of Science in Investigative and Medical Sciences and continued at SLU to obtain her Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Education. Katherine is certified by the NCCPA and is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants.
Prior to specializing in gastroenterology, Katherine gained valuable experience in hospital medicine, providing her with a broad understanding of patient care within a hospital setting. She is excited to apply her skills and knowledge to the field of gastroenterology, contributing to the comprehensive care we provide.
In her personal time, Katherine showcases her artistic side by playing the harp. She also enjoys exploring new places through travel and values spending time with her family and friends.
Kristina Klaverkamp, MSPA, PA-C: Physician Assistant with Diverse Medical Background
Kristina Klaverkamp, MSPA, PA-C, is a dedicated Physician Assistant with a diverse background in medicine. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English: Writing from Southeast Missouri State University and a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Southern Illinois University. Kristina is certified by the NCCPA and is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants.
Kristina’s previous experience spans family medicine and interventional spine medicine, giving her a well-rounded perspective on patient care. She is thrilled to focus her expertise within the gastroenterology specialty, further enhancing our team’s capabilities.
Beyond her medical practice, Kristina enjoys expressing her creativity through writing. She also appreciates the outdoors, enjoys the companionship of her cat Emmie, and values spending time with her friends and family.
