Lauren Barth, DNP, APRN

Practice philosophy: My practice philosophy is to work with my patients to help them achieve their health goals and prevent future disease while using evidenced-based medicine.

What are you passionate about and why? I am most passionate about the speciality of sleep medicine because improving sleep can lead to immediate and long term health benefits.

If you weren't a health care provider, what would you be? If I wasn't a NP, I would teach undergraduate nursing to empower and educate nurses of the future.

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? I became a nurse practitioner to improve the quality of life of my patients and to provide preventative care. I knew I wanted to work in sleep medicine after my clinical rotation in this speciality.

What is something you have learned from your patients? My patients have taught me that they know themselves best. As a provider, I listen to my patients to learn how I can help, then present treatment options and talk through the benefits of each.

What is one of the challenges of this career you enjoy? And why? I strive to provide patient-centered care, recognizing that each patient's health and preferences are unique. Although it can be challenging, it is rewarding to create individualized care plans.

What is your personal health goal? My personal health goals are to be active each day, eat well, prioritize sleep, and use self care.

What is the best thing you've done for your health or the best health advice you've received? Prioritizing sleep has been one of the best things I've done for my health. Utilizing good sleep hygiene and making time to rest gives me energy for the day and allows my body and mind to recharge.

What are you most proud of? I am most proud of achieving my dream of becoming a nurse practitioner and being a provider my patients trust.

What are a few of your personal achievements? My personal achievements include completing my doctoral project to help patients with breast cancer, leading high school youth group each week, and supporting my family and friends.