Nursing is a profession many people recognize, but few understand the specialized paths nurses can take. Public health nursing is one of those roles. To highlight this work, the Florida Department of Health in Polk County (DOH-Polk) speaks with three of our Senior Community Nurses: Amy Thao, Katherine Pate, and Crystal Williams. With over 25 years of combined experience across clinics and the School Health program, they offer a glimpse into the heart of public health nursing.
What Makes Public Health Nursing Unique?
Pate believes the distinction lies in the scope, “Instead of waiting for illness to present in a clinic setting, public health nurses work proactively to prevent disease, promote wellness, and address root causes before they escalate.”…