Jennifer Jackson Hawkins, DNP, RN, FNP-BC

I have always felt that my purpose in life is to help others. I know how challenging life can be and the toll it can take on your physical and mental health. My family faced ongoing poverty and frequent health problems when I was growing up here in Eastern North Carolina. I feel great compassion for people and so wanted a career that focused on caring for others. That, combined with my fascination with science and the incredible human body, made nursing and becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner a fitting path for me. As simple as it sounds, I believe in treating others the way I would want to be treated and the way I would want my loved ones treated. That means that I aim to make my patients feel heard and cared about, that I am thorough and provide evidence-based treatment in a plan that will work for them, and that I respect my patients as my partners in managing their health. Primary care has my heart, and I enjoy working with patients of all ages. Prevention at all levels, including aiming to prevent health problems from developing but also managing chronic health conditions so that negative outcomes can be prevented or lessened, is important to me. I also have a special interest in behavioral health, including adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)/trauma and the increased risk for long-term health effects. I am married and have three kids. We have a mini-farm with goats, chickens, ducks and two spoiled dogs. Outside of work, I enjoy time with my family and being outdoors. I also love a spontaneous road-trip with my good music playing. The beach beckons to me often, and Outer Banks sunsets are my favorite.