As a community partner who delights in sharing healthy living practices throughout our neighborhoods and communities, we would be nothing without fantastic employees who help make this vision a reality.
One of those employees is Deborah Burns, FNP-C.
A valued Sun Health employee for more than fifteen years, most recently at the Center For Health & Wellbeing, Deb recently completed her Family Nurse Practitioner certification from the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. We are so proud of her!
“Patients would commonly say to me, ‘Deb, you have such a manner about you; I wish you were my doctor!” This inspired me to want to help them on a much deeper level, and encouraged me to earn my advanced certification.”
In Arizona, nurse practitioners do not require physician supervision. Therefore, as a result of her new certification, Deborah is now able to offer a more comprehensive level of care to our clients.
Unlike a registered nurse, who is limited to making assessments and recommendations to a physician, a nurse practitioner can write prescriptions and fully treat patients without delays.
“It is so exciting being a nurse; there are just so many avenues to travel. If you want it, there is ALWAYS an adventure in nursing.” ~ Deborah Burns
Deborah earned a bachelor’s degree in the science of nursing from the University of Delaware and a master’s degree in the science of nursing, family nurse practitioner from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix prior to testing for certification.
In addition to helping clients manage chronic illnesses and personal wellness for more active, healthy living and launching a Sun Health employee wellness program, Deborah has been a certified diabetes educator for more than thirteen years. Her diabetes self-management and pre-diabetes prevention classes at the Center for Health & Wellbeing are very well attended.
According to Deborah, an incredible 70 percent of those who attend the pre-diabetes program don’t progress into Type 2 diabetes or significantly delay the onset. Our class includes 16  sessions, followed by six monthly meetings to ensure attendees learn how to change their behavior. Modifying eating habits such as reducing fat intake, and adding in physical activity through the day have significant impact.
The next diabetes prevention class for those diagnosed with pre-diabetes begins June 19. Call (623) 832-9355 now to learn more or guarantee your spot. This class fills up quickly.
