Today we’d like to introduce you to Hillary Hooser, MSN, APRN.
Hi Hillary, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have been a pediatric nurse practitioner for 18 years. I started in Pediatric Neuro-Oncology (kids with brain/spinal cord tumors) and got the blessing of walking alongside families through very difficult times, including end of life. It was during that time that I felt an urge to start a practice where patients (and their siblings) could be seen in a more kid-friendly environment rather than be poked and prodded in a sterile office setting. I have always seen that space on a large piece of land with an old farm house and barn where the kids could just be outside, enjoying the fresh air. Originally, I thought this would only apply at end of life, or for more palliative care. But after working in pediatric primary care for 13 years, seeing healthy babies and children of all health statuses, I feel all children deserve a more down to earth model of care.
For now, I am seeing children in their homes, or sometimes even at their school or in a park. But in a few years, the goal will be to see patients on a property where they can interact with animals, learn a bit about gardening and healthy eating habits and where they can be free to be kids all while I get to squeeze in their check-ups. The plan will be to continue home visits for newborn babies and sick kids who really are better off not leaving their homes.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I think fear has been my biggest obstacle. Fear of stepping out of the box and doing things in a less traditional way kept me frozen for a while. But honestly, there were several moments along the way where I knew I was being guided to take another step, and another step in order to break the mold and make this happen for our kiddos.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a pediatric nurse practitioner who started a pediatric direct primary care practice that brings wellness exams and sick visits to the patients’ homes (for now). The goal will be to be on property with a barn, farm animals and a garden with a large outdoor free space for kids to run and play so that they can get their check-ups in a less threatening environment.
Our practice sees patients from their first day of life all the way up to 21 years of age. We do not accept insurance, but have options to either pay per visit or become a member where visits are included and the parents are able to call/text the provider as needed for health related questions. There are other practices with a similar model in the Jacksonville/St. Augustine area, but I like to think my model of emphasizing time outdoors, focusing on family togetherness, pulling away from screens (kids and parents), encouraging whole/fresh foods and keeping an open mind with other specialists/treatment modalities sets me apart from other practices.
I’m most proud that my vision just keeps evolving as the need/demand changes. I had in my head that this practice would only benefit children with a terminal diagnosis or at end of life, but then realized it would be beneficial for all families with children of all health statuses.
I bring 18 years of pediatric experience to the table, originally in pediatric oncology and now with infants and children all across the spectrum. I love keeping an open dialogue with families to ensure their children are thriving.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My husband and my parents have always been my biggest cheerleaders! And also my kids! Pushing myself to achieve something big is easy when I’m looking to leave a legacy and a story for my own children.
I would also have to thank the two physicians who molded me, Dr. Amy Smith (in Pediatric Neuro-Oncology) and Dr. Patricia Elvir (Pediatric Primary Care with a holistic twist). They both pushed me professionally and taught me more than books/lecturers ever could.
My friend and business mentor, Danielle Brooks with Honey Truck Co. in St. Augustine never let me settle once she found out about my dream/vision. Any time I would see her, she would check in on my progress and continues to do so regularly.
Patients’ mom and friend, Lisa Montoya, encouraged me when I was asking myself “Should I have another baby or start this business?” and told me I should “Do both!” I always go back to that conversation with her when I am balancing my business with raising my precocious toddler.
Vicky Carregal, Physical Therapist Extraordinaire and Executive Director of HorsePlay Therapy has been a mentor to me for over 10 years. She has encouraged me to trust in God’s timing for things and to not see a closed door as a bad thing because there’s usually a window I’m supposed to be looking through.
Business mentor/friend, Dr. Sean McHugh, chiropractor and founder of McHugh Health, has always pushed me to “not test the ice” and to just run after my dream.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://barndoorpeds.com
- Instagram: @barndoorpeds
