I chose nursing as my initial field of study because of my passion to provide care to people in need and because of the joy it brings me to improve the health and well-being of others. After years of experience as a nurse, where my passion for patient care grew considerably, my desire to advance my education became apparent. I became a nurse practitioner so that I could expand my influence as a provider who has more direct involvement in patient outcomes and an increased responsibility for patient care. Becoming a nurse practitioner was the perfect avenue for me to continue with my passion for nursing but with the increased autonomy necessary to have a more direct and positive impact on the lives of others and a greater influence within the healthcare field. I believe in a holistic approach to patient care with consideration of a person’s well-being in its entirety, focusing especially on wellness promotion to improve health and prevent illness through self-care and lifestyle modifications. I enjoy getting to know my patients personally in order to provide the most individualized care possible, and I believe that it is important to take time to listen thoughtfully to a patient’s needs and concerns. I also believe that trust and mutual respect are the fundamental foundation for the provider-patient relationship, and I strive to foster that rapport with each one of my patients. My areas of clinical interest include preventive care/health promotion, health and nutrition counseling, and geriatric care. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, fitness, traveling to the mountains, baking, spending time with my family, and enjoying time with my pug, Zeke.
Ellen "Ashley" Dickens Duke, MSN, AGNP-C Holly Springs address and phone