Experienced providers, personal attention

Missy Noah, LPN, serves as Practice Manager at Preferred Surgical Associates, PLLC. With more than 36 years of healthcare experience, she brings a broad background in clinical nursing, emergency care, surgical practice, and healthcare administration.

Missy began her career in the emergency room before transitioning to Preferred Surgical Associates, where she built upon her clinical experience in a surgical office setting. Her longstanding knowledge of patient care and practice operations supports the physicians, staff, and patients she serves.

In 2021, Missy continued to expand her professional skills by becoming an ICD-10 certified coder and transitioning into the Practice Manager role. She combines her nursing experience with expertise in medical coding, clinical documentation, and daily practice operations to help the team provide coordinated, patient-centered care.

Karli Lay, MA-C, is a Certified Medical Assistant who works alongside Dr. Robert Wilmoth at Preferred Surgical Associates. Originally from Tazewell, Tennessee, she graduated from Claiborne County High School in 2019 and earned associate degrees in Health Sciences and Medical Assisting from South College.

Karli is passionate about helping others and providing compassionate, patient-centered care. She takes pride in being part of the Preferred Surgical team and serving patients in her home community.

After marrying in 2024, Karli moved to Washburn, Tennessee. Outside the office, she enjoys estate sales, collecting antiques, spending time outdoors, and deer and turkey hunting.

Carolyn Shoffner, MA, is a New Tazewell native with more than three decades of experience providing compassionate patient care. She graduated from the Medical Assistant program at Bryman Campus in Atlanta in 1989, supporting herself through school by working at Shoney’s.

Carolyn began her career with endocrinologist Dr. Elyse Glaser in Marietta, Georgia, and later worked at Fort Sanders Nephrology Group in Knoxville. She returned home in 1994 and has been part of the surgical practice ever since.

Her responsibilities include preparing patients for visits, gathering clinical information, assisting with minor office procedures, coordinating outpatient surgery scheduling, and supporting office operations. She especially values the lasting relationships she has built with patients. Outside the office, Carolyn is a proud wife, mother, and grandmother whose faith and community service are important to her.

Tabatha Reynolds has served as a Patient Service Representative at Preferred Surgical Associates for 16 years. She helps patients schedule office appointments and surgical procedures and coordinates insurance pre-certifications so they can feel prepared for their care.

Tabatha is dedicated to making each patient feel welcomed, comfortable, and supported. She understands that navigating medical appointments can be stressful and strives to make the process as smooth as possible.

Outside the office, Tabatha enjoys reading, spending time with her children and grandchildren, and attending church. Family and faith are especially important to her.

Sharon King brings extensive experience in healthcare and public service to her role as a Patient Service Representative at Preferred Surgical Associates. Her background includes emergency dispatch, the Claiborne County Health Department, and hospital administration. She has received the Pinnacle Award twice in recognition of her service.

Sharon values helping patients feel welcomed and supported. Outside work, she enjoys time with her children and grandchildren and remains actively involved in her church and community. Faith, family, and compassion guide her approach to life and patient care.

Tammy Shackelford joined Dr. Robert Wilmoth’s team at Preferred Surgical Associates in 2025, bringing 26 years of experience in healthcare. As a Patient Service Representative, she schedules appointments and coordinates insurance pre-certifications for procedures, helping patients prepare for their care.

Tammy and her husband, Jeff, have been married for 25 years and have three children. Outside the office, she enjoys camping, side-by-side riding, and spending time with family and friends—especially her grandchildren.