Caroline Pupke, D.O. Joins Shepherd Center’s Medical Staff

Shepherd Center recently welcomed Caroline Pupke, D.O., to its medical staff as an attending physician in the Rollins Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program. Dr. Pupke is board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation.

Originally from St. Petersburg, Florida, she earned her undergraduate degree in biology with a minor in public health from the University of South Florida. She received her medical degree from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Emory University. While at Emory, Pupke served as chief resident and completed rotations in brain injury and spinal cord injury at Shepherd Center. She then completed a brain injury medicine fellowship at Spaulding Rehabilitation in Boston.

“My decision to join Shepherd Center was strongly influenced by the opportunity to train here as a resident,” said Dr. Pupke. “During my time here, I developed a deep admiration for the care Shepherd provides to patients and their families, and it quickly became my goal to return here as a brain injury physician. I have always been struck by the way Shepherd goes above and beyond to care for the people it serves, not only providing exceptional medical and rehabilitative care, but also supporting patients and their families throughout the recovery process and helping them rebuild their lives.”

“It is with great pleasure that we welcome back Dr. Pupke,” said Michael Yochelson, M.D., MBA, chief medical officer at Shepherd Center. “Her passion for brain injury medicine, coupled with her patient-centered and collaborative approach to care, makes her a valuable addition to our team.”

When she’s not at work, Dr. Pupke regularly volunteers with the Georgia RSVP Clinic, providing care to individuals who may otherwise have limited access to care for brain and spinal cord injuries. She also enjoys working with adaptive sports programs, including BlazeSports.

Dr. Pupke is an avid college football fan, cheering on the Auburn Tigers. She loves being the fun aunt to her nieces and nephews, discovering new coffee shops, and going on hikes.