If you ask Kara, she’s where she’s meant to be.
Kara Witmer, FNP-BC
The pediatric nurse practitioner has joined McLaren Central Pediatrics, providing a range of primary care service to children — from newborns to age 18.
Kara Witmer, FNP-BC is proficient in providing care for acute and chronic illnesses, infections, concerns over behavior and educating on recommended updates to routine childhood vaccinations. Kara is proficient in breastfeeding, providing education, and teaching breastfeeding techniques. But ultimately, she is passionate in helping parents to reach their specific feeding goals with their child whatever those may be.
Though she didn’t initially set out to practice in pediatrics, it was the path that ultimately found her, and she has never looked back.
Meet Kara.
Why did you choose healthcare?
Growing up I knew I always wanted to help people, but I didn't always understand what that would look like in the long run. I started out in healthcare at 18 as a CNA and knew this is where I would grow my career. And now as a nurse practitioner I get to help to make a difference in peoples’ lives every day.
How did you decide on pediatrics?
Throughout my entire career I have always said that I can work anywhere and with any type of patient. I have always been open to new opportunities and knew I would end up where I was meant to be. The position presented itself to me and the idea of being able to help kiddos and educate parents to make a difference in their lives has ignited the passion in me that I needed.
Why did you choose McLaren and central Michigan?
I made the decision to work with McLaren because when interviewing with the team I realized the options for potential growth. It seemed as though the team at McLaren was excited to help me grow this practice here and would support what I was looking for. I love being part of new projects, so the start of a clinic sounded like a great fit for me.
Practicing in central Michigan has opened up a ton of opportunities for me and my little family. Mount Pleasant is a great town to work in and live near, so it was a perfect fit.
How do you feel that being a parent impacts you as a provider?
Having children of my own has taught me a lot about what it is like to be in the shoes of the parents in the clinic and hospital. I may not have been in each specific situation with my kiddos, but I do know what it feels like to be worried, concerned, sleep deprived, or unsure of what to do next. Having this experience has taught me to have patience as a provider and to take the time to hear where each patient and parent is coming from. Being a parent has also allowed me to be able to hear when parents have cultural, religious, or other differences from the standard of care that is being recommended.
What do you hope to accomplish with your practice?
I hope to have a practice where patients feel that I hear their concerns, answer their questions fully, and provide education to allow them to feel confident and empowered in each specific plan of care we develop. I also want patients to feel like they are a part of one giant family here. Because where I come from, we really make sure to take care of our family.
McLaren Central Pediatrics
McLaren Central Pediatrics is open and accepting patients at its clinic on the campus McLaren Central Michigan hospital (1201 South Drive, Suite 341).
Appointments can be made by calling (989) 953-5313.
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