Brian Erickson, FNP

My interest in critical care - particularly the science and technology of that specialty - led me into nursing. \n I got a lot of satisfaction out of helping people get through, what for many, was a stressful, traumatic time. I wanted more responsibility, so I became a nurse practitioner and worked as an intensivist/pulmonary medicine nurse practitioner for six years. \n That was rewarding work, but I wanted to create long-term relationships with my patients and help keep them out of acute care settings, so I transitioned to family practice. \n Healthcare providers, I believe, should meet people where they are - physically, psychologically, socioeconomically. Provider-patient relationships should be partnerships. I want patients to feel I'm their partner in their healthcare. I also want them to feel comfortable in my office. To that end, I wear flannel and well-worn cowboy boots instead of a white lab coat. That's not an act; it's who I am. I've dealt with my own chronic illness. I've stared at the price of a prescription drug and wondered how I'd pay for it. I've been where many of my patients are. \n I enjoy spending time with my family, especially if my son and I are having adventures together. My family also includes two dogs, Deemo and Frank the Tank, and three cats - ZZ, Kiwi and Skeek. I'm an avid student of Cold War history and have an extensive collection of Cold War artifacts and Geiger counters. In my small woodworking shop, I turn wood bowls on my lathe. I'm always on the hunt for interesting pieces of wood to turn into something useful and beautiful.