Tess Buchanan

ess joined the UCSF PlaySafe athletic training staff in July 2026. Before joining UCSF, she worked at California Sports & Orthopaedic Institute as a clinic lead, providing clinical support for a sports medicine physician. She also served as an athletic trainer at Northgate High School, providing athletic training coverage in the community. She earned her master’s degree in athletic training from Long Island University in 2017 and has spent her career working in sports medicine and orthopedics.

At UCSF, Tess provides athletic training services at Galileo Academy of Science and Technology in San Francisco. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her dogs, hiking, exploring new places, cooking, traveling and staying active.

Tess believes in treating the whole person, beyond an injury or imaging findings. She strives to provide compassionate, individualized care centered on the patient. By taking time to listen, educate and build trust, she aims to make a meaningful difference in each person’s recovery and overall health care experience.