Craig Ruetzel MD
I believe in treating each patient as I would like to be treated. I am very passionate about patient education as without it, it is very difficult for a woman to decide what is best for her. I enjoy taking the time to explain even complex medical conditions or options in understandable and relatable terms. Each patient is to be treated as an individual, and what is the right solution for her may not be best for another patient. This individuality requires that time be taken to get to know each patient and to understand her concerns.
I have practiced in the area since finishing my residency and coming to Virginia Beach in 1992. I am proud to have been a founding member of Mid-Atlantic Women’s Care and having been with Complete Women’s Care for more than 20 years. But now I have finally accomplished a long time dream: having my own small office where I can provide care to patients in the way I believe is best.
Education
- Duke University Durham, NC BS Zoology and Psychology 1982
- University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, TX MD 1988
- Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC Residency 1988-1992
- Board Certification 1994 with ongoing recertification American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Professional Recognition
I have served as Chairman of the Obstetrics and Gynecology department at both Sentara Bayside Hospital and Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, where I was also President of the Medical Staff.
Emma McClain, WHNP-BC
For as long as I can remember, I have been passionate about sexual and reproductive health. From your very first gynecological appointment all the way through menopause, I promise to provide to you the most competent and compassionate care. I aim to build your knowledge and confidence through education and advocacy and am here for my patients through all of life’s transitions.
I grew up in eastern North Carolina and received my undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a double major in nursing and sociology/public health. I have worked throughout eastern North Carolina and southeastern Virginia as a labor and delivery nurse, and am especially passionate about this special time in a family’s life. After working as a labor and delivery nurse for a few years, I realized I could provide the best and most comprehensive care by seeing patients throughout their lives as a nurse practitioner, providing individualized and evidence-based care for each and every patient I meet. I attended Duke University and received my masters in nursing as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner in 2020.
My free time is spent almost exclusively with my vast extended family, all of whom live within about a 30 mile radius. I live with my husband, toddler, and an array of poorly-behaved pets. I am excited to grow and learn in my role at Ruetzel Gynecology and Obstetrics and build long-lasting relationships with my patients.
Education
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, BSN
- Duke University, Durham NC, WHNP
Ashley Mirmak, CNM
My passion and love for women’s health began during my nursing education on labor and delivery. It was there that I saw the strength and determination of many women giving birth and I knew I had found my calling. Through mentorship from my preceptor I decided to pursue midwifery. I am passionate about educating whether it be at an annual exam or prenatal visit and working with patients to come up with an individualized plan.
I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Midwife. I have had a variety of clinical experiences including most recently supporting women in labor desiring unmediated childbirth. My clinical interests include contraceptive care, pregnancy care and improving postpartum support.
I am originally from California but have lived in Virginia since 2014. In my spare time I enjoy exercising, baking and spending time with my husband and 2 kids. It is exciting to be a part of the team here!
Education
- San Jose State
- Vanderbilt University, MSN and Post-Master’s in Midwifery
Certifications:
- American Midwifery Certification Board, CNM
- American Nurses Credentialing Center, FNP