This month we’re spotlighting Deb Mears, our Nursing Coordinator, who has been with us for twenty years! Get to know her better by reading about her previous education, work experience, and our interview with her.
Deb Mears’ Education and Work Experience
- She previously worked at what was the “old” Home Hospital for sixteen years.
- She started in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit when she graduated.
- She also did part time in the Kathryn Weil Center and taught Birthing Classes, Breast Feeding Classes, Baby Care and CPR.
- Then she came the clinic in 1995, a month after the Family Health Clinic officially opened.
As they say the “rest is history.”
A Conversation with Deb Mears
What drew you to the Family Health Clinic originally?
Actually the way I walked in the door initially was because of an advertisement for a Purdue job in Delphi! However as soon as I interviewed with Jo Brooks, the founder, I knew I wanted to be a part of her vision of the clinic. She had an infectious passion for public health and she wanted that for Carroll County and the surrounding counties.
How has the FHC changed since?
We started with a Nurse Practitioner, nurse and 1 front desk staff. Some days we would see the maximum of 3 people and 2 of those would just be coming in the doors to ask a health question. We had to be creative to get where we are now: fireman boot drives on the street in front of the first clinic, many hours spent writing grants applications.
Now, our nurse practitioners are more comfortable with all types of situations including the management of chronic disease. When we first opened we only saw minor acute and wellness. Also, we now have additional services including behavior health services and financial assistance services provided by our insurance navigators.
What is your favorite part about working for the Family Health Clinic?
I have worked with amazing co-workers at the clinic. All with their own strengths and interests. When I think of the clients we have seen through the years I also know some of those “heart”: connections could not have been made in another clinic. I feel our clients know that we truly care about the outcome of their health, and we take the time to educate them on skills to do so.
What do you see in the next twenty years for the Family Health Clinic?
Twenty years…WOW it might be very different. I hope it is not just a computer screen business 🙂 It would be difficult to hold someone’s hand that way. I would like to see where those that have the finances would see the importance of a presence in the community. I.E. More time for education in the home, in the schools etc. As people get busier someone may figure out that good health care, mind, body and spirit takes time.
Would you like to add anything else?
I just hold many great memories of the people and things that have happened here and continue to enjoy sharing them.
