May 21, 2025
Martha Walters Sharitz, PA-C of Wythe Physician Practices First Choice Family Care
Article contributed by SWVA Sun:
For Martha Sharitz, a lifelong resident of Wytheville, medicine was always a part of her life—even in the most unexpected ways. Growing up on her family’s farm, she was no stranger to hard work or health care, administering vaccinations to cattle and shadowing large-animal
veterinarians from a young age.
“I always knew I wanted to go into medicine,” she said. “But I also knew that being on call 24/7, like the vets I shadowed, wasn’t something I wanted long-term. I knew I wanted a family one day and wanted to be present for them while still doing what I love.”
Sharitz’s passion for helping others never wavered. After graduating from the University of Virginia, she discovered a different path to practice medicine—becoming a physician assistant (PA). She enrolled in the University of Charleston’s Physician Assistant Program in West
Virginia, where her graduating class numbered around 30. “I was actually in my third year of undergraduate school preparing to become a pharmacist when I discovered what a PA was,” she recalled. “I hadn’t even known it was an option before then.”
That discovery changed the trajectory of her life. She soon shadowed local gastroenterological physician assistant Brandi Moore, who became a mentor and helped her gain the confidence she needed to pursue certification. In 2018, a year after marrying her husband, Jacob Sharitz,
she officially became a certified PA and began her medical career at New River Valley Medicine in Pulaski.
Sharitz later joined Wythe Physician Practices, where she initially focused on adult patients. Her current role, however, has expanded to include adolescents as young as 12—a development she is particularly excited about as a mother of two. “I’m happy to now be able to see younger patients,” she said. “Juvenile diabetes is a major issue, and I want to help young people recognize and manage the condition early.”
Diabetes has always been a central concern for Sharitz, both professionally and personally. Type 1 diabetes run in her family—her brother, cousin, and uncle are all Type 1 diabetics—fueling her commitment to support patients through diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care.
“The most rewarding part of my job is being on the journey with my patients,” she said. “When someone comes in with a problem, I enjoy digging into the diagnostic process—whether it’s through blood work, imaging, or referrals. And when they return and we’ve found a solution,
that’s incredibly fulfilling.”
In her day-to-day practice, Sharitz treats a wide range of conditions, often managing multiple overlapping issues. “I see a lot of patients dealing with a combination of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity,” she explained. “It’s rewarding to be part of their efforts to improve their health and quality of life.”
After seven years as a practicing PA, Sharitz feels she’s achieved a good balance—working in the field she loves while also building meaningful relationships within the community and her workplace. “I really enjoy working my coworkers, and I’m happy to help carry some of the pediatric patient load,” she said. “I’m also thankful for my boss, Zane Perkins, who has been a kind and supportive leader.”
Sharitz’s deep ties to Wytheville make her work even more meaningful. Having grown up in the area, she feels a personal connection to her patients and the community. “I love this town and the people in it,” she said. “It’s an honor to care for those I’ve grown up with
and known all my life.”
While others have encouraged her to pursue a doctorate or further specialization, Sharitz is content with where she is—striking a balance between professional fulfillment and a rich personal life. “People often ask if I’ll go back to school for a doctorate,” she said. “But that would mean more time away from my family and our farm. I want to be present for my kids, my husband, and our life together.”
Outside the clinic, Sharitz is a full-time mother to 3-year-old Myra and 10-month-old James Buchanan Sharitz. Together with her husband of eight years, Jacob—who works as a loan officer for Farm Credit of the Virginias—they also run a full-time cattle farm.
“I love my job, I love where I live, and I love the people I work with and care for every day,” she said.
To make an appointment with Martha Sharitz at Wythe Physician Practices, call (276) 223-1430 or visit her at 360 Virginia Avenue, Building B, in Wytheville.