What makes you passionate about being a healthcare provider? I enjoy connecting with my patients, helping them become the healthiest version of themselves while supporting their mental and emotional wellbeing. Being a Nurse Practitioner means treating all aspects of the patient including social, emotional, physical, and mental. In your opinion, what should be the role of a primary care provider for a patient, taking into account both physical health and behavioral health needs? The primary care provider is the gateway to healthcare for most patients. They come to their PCP for general wellness but also for education on their disease processes and how best to treat them. The PCP is the main provider coordinating their care, making it a personal relationship. The PCP refers to specialists when needed, and factors in the patient's goals of care for optimal health outcomes. Tell us a little bit about yourself. What do you like to do in your spare time? My name is Kirsten, I live in Chicago IL with my two dogs, Lady and Milo. I have a passion for jogging, snowboarding, and travel. My two dogs and I have taken up cooking during the pandemic, when we're not at the dog park we love to cook and learn new recipes.