Your Partner in Health: Edward Lopez

As told by Holly Kitten

Edward Lopez, R.N., BSN, MSN, FNP-BC, is always looking to broaden his horizons in nursing.

After working as a registered nurse in critical care and emergency services, Lopez decided to help combat the country's shortage of primary care providers by pursuing an advanced role in nursing.

The U.S. is facing a primary care provider shortage, according to the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

Upon graduating from the School of Nursing, Lopez became a board certified family nurse practitioner. He now works for Midland Family Physicians, providing holistic nursing and medical care to a variety of people, including those with acute and chronic illnesses.

“My favorite part about my job is getting to help such a broad range of patients, regardless of their age or gender,” Lopez said. “As a nurse practitioner at our Family Physicians practice, I have had the opportunity to do some really cool things, such as volunteering with our local community pediatric clinic.”

Lopez helps care for underserved children in the Midland area whose families are unable to afford medical care. He said nursing students can experience these rewarding experiences, too, if they remember to be true to their hearts.

“If you love being a nurse, and want to expand that role of providing care, then consider becoming a nurse practitioner,” Lopez said. “It won’t matter if you specialize in pediatrics, acute care, women’s health or even family practice. Whatever choice you make, it will always be the right choice.”

Although he is not currently a preceptor for the School of Nursing, Lopez said he plans to make himself available to mentor nurse practitioner students next year.