As a nurse, I help guide patients and family members/caregivers in easing the transition through challenging healthcare situations. I work directly with clients or their legal representatives to ensure they have a voice in their care and information to promote informed decision making.
My name is Susan McCoy and I have been a nurse for more than 20 years. I began my nursing career as a Navy Nurse Corps Officer working in critical care. Following my military career, I worked in the areas of public health in which I designed programs for the medically indigent population and helped those in need access medical care as well as educated the community on a variety of health issues. Additionally, I was a sexual assault nurse examiner and was responsible for evidence collection, education, advocacy, and an expert witness. All of this experience led me to path of teaching nursing in higher education for RN-BSN and pre-licensure students for many universities throughout the country.
I have always had a passion for teaching and helping others. This was the reason I became a nurse. Throughout my career, I have been drawn to helping friends and family members who were newly diagnosed and assisting them to advocate for the services they need and help with navigating through the healthcare system. In 2008, my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. While she had a very supportive husband, towards the end, her needs required a lot more in-depth care, and navigating through the healthcare system became very challenging for him. Although he was very diligent in making sure her needs were met, there were limitations and I was thankful I had the knowledge and compassion to help bridge the gap between the healthcare system, my mother, and her husband.
“She went above and beyond in helping during trying times with the care of my wife, who was an Alzheimer's patient. Her ability to calmly help and suggest options always had a calming and positive effect on me. She helped research options, talked to medical staff and ensured that my wife’s medical wishes were being met.”
“Dr. McCoy personally visited her client and our family in the hospital and at home, having discussions with the medical staff in both places and directing her care. She has a professional yet easy-going manner which makes it comfortable to have the hardest conversations about and with a loved one. My mom always smiled when Dr. McCoy was with her.”
