Terri Baker, PA-C

Terri Baker, PA-C, is a certified physician assistant employed by CU Medicine and an Instructor in the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. She has practiced as a physician assistant since 2008, initially in orthopedic surgery before transitioning to neurosurgery in 2012. Her clinical focus includes the evaluation and management of spinal disorders, complex spine surgery, and spinal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks.

Terri works with neurosurgeons and multidisciplinary care teams throughout the surgical process. Her responsibilities include clinical evaluation, treatment planning, patient education, surgical first assistance, and postoperative recovery and follow-up. This continuity allows her to help patients understand their treatment options and navigate the different stages of spine care.

An important focus of her work is the University of Colorado CSF Leak Program. Terri has contributed to the program’s development and helps coordinate care for patients with complex spinal CSF leaks, including diagnostic evaluation, multidisciplinary case discussions, treatment planning, and longitudinal follow-up. She collaborates with neurosurgeons, neuroradiologists, neurologists, and other specialists to help patients navigate what can be a challenging diagnostic and treatment process.

Terri also contributes to the expansion of neurosurgical spine services in Broomfield and Longmont, improving access to specialized evaluation and coordinated care for patients in Boulder County and the northern Denver metropolitan area.

In addition to clinical care, she participates in the education of neurosurgical trainees, development of clinical care protocols, and collaborative research. Her approach emphasizes clear communication, continuity of care, and helping patients feel informed and supported throughout their treatment.