2022 Fall GAPNA Newsletter Volume 41 Number 3

Tomika Williams, PhD, AGNP-C, CDP

  • University of North Carolina at Greensboro – Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing
  • Regional Lead Nurse Practitioner, Remote Health, PLLC
  • North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University – Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • University of North Carolina at Greensboro – Master of Science in Nursing

Describe a day in your life.

My workplace offers care to older adults across three settings:  home based primary care, office primary care, and facility care. We offer office visits, telehealth visits, and home visits. I generally start my day in my office, assess my schedule and start seeing patients as they are scheduled. I work with an interdisciplinary team to provide these visits.

What inspired you to work in geriatrics?

I’ve always loved older adults, and I feel comfortable around them. My grandmother was 99 years old when she passed away, and for several years prior to her death in 2020, I assisted my mom in caring for her. She inspired me to continue my work with this population.

How do you see the field of geriatrics evolving in the future?

I see in the future more advanced practice nurses taking the lead in the development of different models of care for older adults. I see the specialty of geriatrics growing to the point where “all the facets” of care are counted when it comes to billing and reimbursement. I see opportunities for growth for our allied professionals with specific training and certification in geriatrics.

What is your favorite part of your job?

Hearing the stories of my patients! There is always a good story.

What are your hobbies/favorite activities?

I love to paper craft, meaning play with stickers, washi tape, journals, planners, stamps, and markers and pens! I also enjoy reading, traveling, and singing!

Where do you hope to be in 5 years in your career?

In 5 years, I hope to still be providing care for older adult patients. I also have a vision for providing leadership and coaching to advanced practice providers who choose to work in long-term care.

How and why did you get involved with GAPNA as a leader?

I’ve been a member since 2010. (Wow!) I started off working in my local chapter with conference planning and contributing as a speaker for our annual events. I then transitioned to increasing my involvement by participating in Special Interest Groups (SIGs) (education and research). This participation led me to where I am today, and I continue to look for opportunities to collaborate with colleagues who care for older adults.

Anything else you’d like us to know?

I love quotes – one of my favorite well-known quotes is, “Be the change you want to see in the world.”