Meet The Staff

Dr. Stepan Oliva

Dr. Stepan Oliva completed his undergraduate studies at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1989.  He subsequently attended the Medical University of South Carolina Medical School, where he also completed his medical internship and dermatology residency, serving as chief resident in 1998.  He is board certified in dermatology and currently a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, American Society for Mohs surgery, American Medical Association and the Central Florida Physicians Alliance.

Dr. Oliva has been practicing dermatology in Winter Haven since 1998 and been in solo practice at his current location since 2007.  He is an avid competitive swimmer, having attended Olympic trials in 1984 and 1988 and continues to be nationally ranked as a Masters swimmer in both the USA and Canada.  His other interests include all types of water sports, playing hockey, and restoring antique machinery such as cars, motorcycles, farm tractors, and his pride and joy, a 1926 Frick steam engine.

Kate Ryals, PA-C 

Kate Ryals PA-C completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Fl with a major in Nutritional Science and a minor in Zoology in 1998. She then attended Barry University in Miami, Fl and completed her Masters degree as a Physician Assistant in 2001. She has been practicing dermatology since 2002 and has worked with Dr. Oliva for ten years. Kate re-certifies every six years and tries to continue to learn new skills and keep up with her knowledge in dermatology as well as general medicine.

Kate lives in Lakeland, Fl with her husband and three daughters. She travels to Winter Haven three days a week to work with staff and a doctor that share her work ethic, patient centered care, and work-life balance. In her free time, she loves to run, teach cycle classes, and spend time with friends, family, and church. Kate enjoys her work and helping people feel healthy and cared for. She will do her best to listen to the needs of her patients, educate others, and know the limits of her practice and seek assistance when needed.