Philosophy
West Michigan Endocrine specializes in caring for patients managing diseases associated with hormones and the organs that make them.
Our team treats patients with thyroid disease, disorders of bone and mineral metabolism, parathyroid disease, gonadal problems including PCOS and testicular dysfunction, disorders of the pituitary and adrenal glands, and other endocrine disorders.
West Michigan Endocrine approaches each patient's case as a unique puzzle. Our philosophy prioritizes carefully listening to a patient's past and current symptoms, thoroughly exploring their medical and family history, and methodically reviewing appropriate labs and studies. Only after all the relevant puzzle pieces have been gathered and sorted do we work alongside a patient to put the puzzle together. This approach allows patients to fully understand their diagnosis, make treatment decisions with their physician, and create a treatment plan that helps them improve their health and feel better.
About Dr. Emilie Collins, MD
“I feel most fulfilled when my patients fully understand their diagnosis and we are able to make treatment decisions together.”
-Dr. Emilie Collins, MD
About
Dr. Emilie Collins is a board-certified endocrinologist who specializes in the dysfunction of hormones and the organs that make them.
A native of Dallas, Texas, Dr. Collins completed medical school at the University of Texas, Southwestern. After graduation, she moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan to complete her internship and residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Michigan. She remained in Ann Arbor for a fellowship in Metabolism, Endocrine and Diabetes. During her fellowship, she also earned a Masters in Clinical Research Design from the University of Michigan School of Public Health.
Dr. Collins enjoys the outdoors with her family.
A happy Michigander since meeting her husband Stew in Ann Arbor, the two moved to Grand Rapids in 2007 at the completion of her medical training, finding West Michigan to be a particularly wonderful place to practice medicine and raise a family. Dr. Collins began her career in endocrinology at Mercy Health Saint Mary's, where she practiced until founding West Michigan Endocrine in 2021.
Dr. Collins and her husband have three children and two labradors; she is both an enthusiastic dog-lover and a proud parent who enjoys watching her children as they choose their paths. In her free time, Dr. Collins enjoys competing in triathlons, bike races, and runs, finding that training keeps her happy, healthy, and focused.
Meet Dr. Emilie Collins, MD
Hear from Dr. Collins herself about her education, experience and what keeps her happy, healthy and focused on providing excellent patient care.
About Kara Pleune, PA-C
"I am dedicated, thoughtful and compassionate. We will work together to pursue care that improves your health."
-Kathryn Pleune PA-C
About
Kathryn Pleune, referred to as Kara, is joining West Michigan Endocrinology.
Kara grew up in Grand Rapids with her parents and four siblings. She attended Calvin College for her undergraduate degree and then earned her degree as a Physician Assistant and Master's in Medical Science from Saint Louis University.
She returned to Grand Rapids after graduation and has worked as a PA for over 20 years. She has a variety of medical experience - working as a hospitalist, in the emergency department and for the past nine years as part of a busy internal medicine practice. She has a passion for endocrinology and is very excited to specialize in this area. Kara also loves developing relationships with her patients in order to provide individual care.
She married her husband five years ago and with him came the blessing of two kids who are now teenagers.
As a family, they love to travel, swim, hike and boat. She also has two dogs that keep her walking. Camping, kayaking, tennis, board games and photography are some of her favorite hobbies.
Patient Testimonials
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“Dr. Collins was one of the best doctors I have seen in my life. She actually used the information I filled out before my visit and took effort and showed concern for my condition. She listened. We need more doctors like her.”
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“I highly recommend Dr. Collins to anyone with endocrine or bone health issues. She is intelligent, inquisitive and open to any questions I have for her. If she doesn't have an answer she researches the issue and follows up. Be proud she is on your team! “
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“Dr. Collins is the best physician I've ever had. I'd love to have her as my primary physician but she is a specialist, so I see her for specific condition(s). She's a great listener & communicates clearly. I am very well cared for by her.”
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“I had questions and my doctor took them seriously, took extra labs to test some of my concerns and adjusted my medicine as needed. I was truly grateful for the respect I received and my concerns were listened to and acted on.”
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“Dr Collins is an excellent doctor. She listens to the patient and works with you to solve problems. The best doctor I have ever had.”
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“Dr. Collins is a phenomenal physician. She took the time to explain the physiology behind what I was experiencing and was knowledgeable and empathic. I felt safe, heard, cared for, and confident in her care.”