Lisa R. Schaaf, MSN, RN, CPNP-PC

I am a certified pediatric nurse practitioner specializing in diabetes and endocrinology. I primarily see patients with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes as well as those with common endocrine conditions, such as hypothyroidism.

My interest in becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner stems from a deeply rooted desire to serve others. My mom is an occupational therapist and works with kids with autism, so from a young age, I was exposed to children with differing needs.

Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I was a teacher with Teach for America, a program focused on bringing education equity to all children, no matter where they live. This experience shaped the practitioner I am today. I learned how to build meaningful and lasting relationships with children and their families, while working toward common goals. I saw firsthand the impact education equity can have on a community, as well as the effects of health inequities.

The decision to transition out of the classroom and into the healthcare profession grew from a desire to continue to serve under-resourced communities and bring equitable healthcare to all.

I am a strong believer in patient-centered care. I like to get to know my patients and develop care plans that work for them in the context of their lives. They come to see us as providers because we are experts in our field, but my patients and their families are the experts in their own bodies. I value learning about their daily experiences and struggles and approaching their care holistically.

As a health professional, I am aligned with Health at Every Size (HAES), an organization dedicated to advancing social justice, creating an inclusive and respectful community, and supporting people of all sizes in finding compassionate ways to take care of themselves.

In my free time, I love to travel. I also enjoy spending time outside, hiking, biking, running and exploring. Other interests include cooking and working on art projects. I even have my own hand-lettering business.