National Nurse Practitioner week, which falls between November 12-18, 2023, is celebrated annually to recognize and increase awareness and appreciation of the critical role nurse practitioners play in the delivery of quality healthcare.
We continue our series of highlighting members of YKHC’s cadre of committed and dedicated nurse practitioners and acknowledge the invaluable contributions they make to the communities we serve.
This week we feature Anne Narog as she shares her journey as an NP with us.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I am an Inupiaq eskimo from a little village in Northwestern Alaska called Golovin. I am the youngest of 8 children. I am married to Brian and have 4 children, and 4 grandchildren. My hobbies including world travel, scuba diving, subsistence activities, hiking and exploring new places, cooking and baking.
What events/situations led them to pursue a career an NP?
I was always fascinated with science, especially biological and life science. I always wanted to be a doctor but, back in the 70s and 80s, village schools did not prepare one for medical school. Becoming a nurse was the most realistic and attainable goal for me. I have always wanted to help people, especially our Native people. Rural Alaska is known for the ever-revolving door of health care providers, the solution to that is to grow our own. That’s why I’m here. I love working here and taking care of the people of the YK Delta. It’s like taking care of family. I hope that I can be a familiar and reliable health care provider for our patients.
How many years did you spend in training/education to become an NP?
I first received by Bachelors of Science in Nursing, then a Master’s of Science in Nursing. I was not the traditional student, as I did all my education while raising a family. All in all, it took me about 10 years.
What is most rewarding in your role as an NP?
The most rewarding aspect of my job as an NP is helping people. I love it when people recognize me and tell me, “I am so glad it’s you or I am so thankful you are here”. I have worked for YKHC for the past 10 years and I have really enjoyed seeing our patients grow and change throughout this time.
How has your work as an NP impacted you personally and professionally?
Every aspect of caring for patients from birth to death impacts my life personally and professionally. I’m so humbled that I have the privilege of caring for people when they don’t feel the best. I want to do the very best for every single person I have contact with. I want every patient to feel heard and well cared for.
How has your work impacted the communities you serve?
I think that being a familiar face for our patients would make them more comfortable to seek care. I also feel that there is an increased level of trust when patients see a fellow Alaska Native providing care, as I can relate on a personal level to a lot of the same problems. I would also hope that I can be seen as a role model for those young people who would like to pursue a career in the health field.
