“I found a strong connection to the patient population in rheumatology. The therapies available to patients are evolving, and these treatments can alter diseases and truly change patients' lives. Helping patients understand the risks and benefits of treatment is very rewarding.” 

Dr. Wakeley is board certified in internal medicine and rheumatology. She specializes in muscle inflammation, systemic sclerosis (scleroderma), lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis and other musculoskeletal syndromes at Atrium Health SouthPark Rheumatology and for hospitalized patients at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center. 

She serves as an assistant professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center and clinical coach at Wake Forest Baptist School of Medicine. 

Dr. Wakeley has been recognized as Atrium Health’s Chief Internal Medicine Resident, a Charlotte Magazine Top Doctor and a Business North Carolina Top Doctor. 

She is involved in various research projects, including investigating the effects of cannabidiol on patients with rheumatoid arthritis, evaluating the role of intravenous immunoglobulin in patients with immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy and understanding the role of vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging in central nervous system vasculitis. 

Dr. Wakeley received her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine at Ohio University and completed her residency at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center. She then completed her fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Wakeley received her Master’s of Science in Medical Education and Leadership at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine. 

Outside of work, she enjoys exploring her neighborhood with her husband as well as working on home projects. They also love spending time with family and friends.