Pascagoula, MS (September, 2012) - The physicians of Comprehensive Pain & Rehabilitation (CPR) are pleased to announce the promotion of Gulf Coast-native, Michelle Buchanan, DNP, AG-ACNP, RN, within its practice. A nurse for the group for five years, Ms. Buchanan recently earned her doctorate in nursing practice (DNP) at the University of South Alabama

Intended primarily to prepare registered nurses to become independent primary care providers, the DNP focuses on the clinical aspects of nursing rather than academic research. The curriculum for the DNP degree includes advanced practice, diagnoses and treatment of disease.

“Michelle has always delivered compassionate, thorough care to our patients. Now, as a treating provider, her role has expanded to include diagnostics, medicine management, and more,” explains the practice's founding physician, Dr. Tom Yearwood. “Michelle truly cares about each patient and takes the time to build a relationship. She is a real asset to this practice.” Motivated by the desire to do more for patients at Comprehensive Pain & Rehabilitation, Michelle pursued her DNP while working full-time for the practice. (Photo: Michelle Buchanan, DNP, AG-ACNP, RN)

“When patients come to us, their quality of life is so poor. They've been to many doctors, but still have no relief. Our multidisciplinary approach to pain is often the start of the healing process,” Buchanan notes. “I wanted to earn my DNP to be more helpful to patients and to the CPR physicians. Their needs are so great, and now, with expanded access to our care, patients can get in to see us faster.”

Buchanan also appreciates the mentoring she receives from colleagues at CPR. “Each provider has something special they bring to the table, so we have the unique opportunity to learn from each other and grow our skills daily. I'm honored and privileged to work with such a talented group, serving the community in which I grew up.”