Laura Tess, DNP, AGNP-C

Practice philosophy: My practice philosophy is to create an environment that provides for mutual respect and empathy. I strive to make impactful connections with my patients and empower them to gain greater control over decisions and actions affecting their health. I care deeply about quality improvement in healthcare as well as providing all inclusive care that facilitates ease of access.

What are you passionate about and why? I'm passionate about my family and being a mother. I feel general health and wellness as well as physical fitness are key ways that I can exemplify and empower others to lead healthy lifestyles. I really enjoy education, and teaching what I know to my patients, family members and friends.

If you weren't a health care provider, what would you be? Something outside like a gardener or a landscape artist. I love the outdoors.

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? I worked for years as an RN and always craved more knowledge and skills to provide better care to my patients. Working in the field of healthcare gave me the energy and drive to become a CNP.

What is something you have learned from your patients? I've learned a lot from my patients over the years, but I've learned the most from the patients who deal with cancer. These folks teach us valuable lessons on life perspectives, and gratitude.

What is one of the challenges of this career you enjoy? And why? I enjoy the unique challenges that oncology patients face because the work you put into overcoming those challenges is both needed and appreciated.

What is your personal health goal? To motivate others and empower them to put their health first by leading a healthy and fit lifestyle.

What is the best thing you've done for your health or the best health advice you've received? The best health advice I've received is to lift heavy things, and to challenge yourself to do the hard stuff. This grows your muscles and your mind, which are foundations of healthy living.

What are you most proud of? I'm most proud of achieving a terminal degree in nursing while working and raising a family. It took immense focus and dedication to make this type of goal a reality, and I'm so proud to be able to have accomplished it. I'm really most proud of the love and support my family provides me.

What are a few of your personal achievements? Carried out a successful doctoral quality improvement project and presented it at the national level; Ran a half-marathon; First person in my family to receive a graduate level degree.