As a Nurse Practitioner with 28 years of experience in family practice, women’s health, and rheumatology, I bring a wealth of expertise to my role at VUMC. In my capacity I specialize in providing comprehensive primary care services to patients across the lifespan, with a focus on promoting wellness, preventing disease, and managing chronic conditions. My responsibilities encompass conducting thorough patient assessments, diagnosing acute and chronic illnesses, formulating personalized treatment plans, prescribing medications, and coordinating follow-up care. Additionally, I am actively involved in patient education initiative, empowering individuals to take an active role in their health and well-being. Through my dedication to evidence-based practice and ongoing professional development, I strive to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with VUMC’s commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery.
Navigating the landscape of advanced practice nursing comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. As someone deeply immersed in this field for nearly three decades, I still find challenges in my role. Keeping abreast of constantly changing healthcare policies and regulations presents a challenge requiring continual adaptation to ensure compliance while delivering optimal patient care.
Learning to embrace and integrate the evolving technologies in healthcare, such as telemedicine and E-visit platforms has been challenging and rewarding.
I also serve as a preceptor for NP students and for the Vanderbilt Program in Interprofessional Learning (VPI) program precepting nurse practitioner students, medical students, and pharmacy students. In this I feel my commitment to learning and teaching is demonstrated and also keeps me up to date on the advancements and changes of the guidelines for practice.
My extensive tenure in family practice demonstrates my commitment to providing quality healthcare and building long-term relationships for my patients. I have also co-authored and authored two textbooks with Springer Publishing, Family Practice Guidelines 6th edition and Adult-Gerontology Practice Guidelines, 3rd edition, which highlights my contributions to advancing knowledge in the field and sharing insights with fellow healthcare professionals and my dedication to the nursing profession.
When not working, I spend time with my friends and family. My daughter is a nurse practitioner at the VA in Marion, IL and my son is a 2nd year resident in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at VUMC.
I also enjoy my furry friends, Lilly, Daisey and Bella who are always happy and eager to greet me when getting home from work and keep me accountable for our daily walk/exercise routine. I enjoy golfing, reading, shopping, and baking when time allows.
