Timothy Neilson, D.N.P., R.N., F.N.P.-C.
DNP Graduate, Class of 2011
OHSU School of Nursing
Location: John Day, OR
Current Employment
Independent Healthcare Contractor, Grant County Public Health (Oregon) and Washington StateHow did the program help shape your current position?
I held these positions prior to entering the DNP program, but my role has evolved in each position due to the DNP curriculum. Aside from continuing to directly develop my clinical skills, I have noticed that I am far more adept at reviewing guidelines and literature efficiently and applying the finding to my practice. In addition, I have developed a well-rounded understanding of the healthcare system at local, regional, and international levels. This is crucial to recognizing opportunities to develop innovative processes based on clinical observations and experiences. I strongly believe that this translational role is the most underrated way to streamline and improve the US healthcare delivery system. All of the aforementioned areas of growth directly affect the quality of patient care.
Advice to incoming doctoral students
Keep an open mind. Considering myself strictly a clinician, I often had a difficult time evaluating how the curriculum applied to my practice. With the encouragement of faculty, I eventually learned that healthcare was far more than simply delivery. This is a seemingly obvious concept and I certainly realized it in a vague, nebulous way, but had no idea that the program could arm me to affect the system at so many levels.
What is next for you?
I will continue to work with underserved populations. I am also developing an interactive preventative care website for patients that will improve health literacy and promote partnerships between patients and their primary care providers.
