APRN Work

Working for the Indian Health Service has provided me with incredible opportunities to continue to learn, grow, and lead. I began working in a tribal health program in 2001 as a public health nurse caring for adolescent teen mothers, and then later as a tribal clinic site manager caring for a small rural tribal community. As an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation, I learned that I could apply for the IHS Health Professions Scholarship to further my education in nursing. After applying, I received the IHS scholarship in 2011 and attended Georgetown University, earned my Master’s degree, and became an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). After graduation, I was hired at a rural mountain tribal program, where I gained valuable clinical experiences in both family practice and internal medicine. It was here that I became an adult and pediatric forensics examiner and successfully launched the first tribal sexual assault program in California. I would go on to transition into the private sector for five years, working in internal medicine and nephrology, but I missed working with American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people.

For the last five years, I have been working directly for the Indian Health Service as a supervisory NP at a Youth Regional Treatment center, caring for native youth struggling with substance use issues. This work allowed me an opportunity to help youth grow their health literacy and learn how to advocate for themselves. Caring for AI/AN people from childhood into old age has been the honor of my life and I have had the privilege to care for them on beautiful tribal lands. Working for the Indian Health Service also means I have full practice authority, recognizing and acknowledging my ability to deliver sound quality patient care as an APRN. I recently was offered an opportunity in an advanced practice leadership role as an area healthcare consultant. This position has allowed me to impact so many more lives than ever before.

I wish I had started my career with IHS much earlier because the benefits are extraordinary! I can attest that the work-life balance is what every nurse practitioner deserves and needs to thrive; it is the most balanced work environment I have ever experienced, where self-care is prioritized, time with family is respected and teamwork is valued.