Sentara Family Nurse Practitioner Delivers Care for Every Stage of Life
Jennifer L. Simpson, NP
Sentara Family Medicine Physicians
Family Medicine, Nurse Practitioner
“My stepmom was a nurse and inspired me to enter the field. At the tender age of 16, I became a nursing assistant and fell in love with patient care,” says Jennifer Simpson, family nurse practitioner.
“I continued my training, becoming a licensed practical nurse, then a registered nurse, then a family nurse practitioner. In May 2019, I’ll graduate with my doctorate in nursing practice. I love this field so much that I keep learning. It lets me deliver even better care to my patients.”
Nurse Practitioner for the Entire Family
Simpson is a family nurse practitioner with Sentara Family Medicine Physicians in Hampton. She provides ongoing care for patients at every stage of life, emphasizing prevention and wellness through routine exams and vaccinations. For patients who have a chronic illness, she works closely with them to manage the disease so they can live a full, active and longer life.
Some of the chronic conditions Simpson treats include:
- Asthma
- Depression
- Diabetes and related conditions
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
Providing Primary Care for People, Not Their Illness
Simpson enjoys building relationships with patients over the years. “When I get to know my patients and know more about them, we develop a relationship built on trust,” says Simpson.
“With trust comes open communication. Patients tell you more about themselves. I use that information to develop a treatment plan that will work for that individual.”
For example, some patients initially decide not to undergo a colonoscopy, but eventually agree because she helps them understand the importance. Other patients may have a hard time controlling diabetes or blood pressure because they don’t take the medications as needed. Simpson educates them as to why following instructions is important – but also helps them find alternative medicines if side effects are preventing them from following through on treatment.
Convenient Family Medicine Services in Hampton
Patients describe Simpson as compassionate and caring. “I listen rather than talk over or interrupt my patients. I hear what they have to say,” she says. “I’ve had a lot of feedback that people like this approach and feel comfortable opening up. Plus, I use a little humor to help patients relax and feel more connected.”
Simpson collaborates with a team of healthcare providers who work together to ensure patients, especially those who are sick or injured, don’t have to wait for care. “We respond to our patients promptly,” says Simpson.
“It’s rewarding to see the change and progress people can make in their health care,” says Simpson. “Patient satisfaction and making a difference in the lives of others is my passion. I love knowing that I play a part in my patients leading fulfilled, healthy lives.”
When she’s not caring for patients, Simpson spends time with her husband, six children and three grandchildren. She has three daughters still at home, and together they enjoy going to the beach, boating, swimming and hiking.
Background
Simpson is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She belongs to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Association. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Allen College in Waterloo, Iowa where she is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Nursing Practice degree.
Simpson is accepting new patients at Sentara Family Medicine Physicians, located at 200 Eaton St., Hampton, Va. Learn more about the role nurse practitioners play in patient care.