MEET THE PROVIDER: Maria Williams
Life Coast Community Health Center is home to a team of driven medical providers who combine unrivaled patient services with a passion for community involvement to deliver comprehensive, quality care that embodies the core values of our mission as a healthcare provider.
To help you get to know some of Life Coast’s dedicated staff on a more personal level, we have launched a “Meet the Provider” series. Maria Williams, FNP-C, is a Family Nurse Practitioner. Maria is based at our Thibodaux location.
Why did you choose to go into the medical field?
I went into nursing to help patients, but after a few years in the field I realized I could do more and went back to get my FNP-C.
What is your favorite part of practicing medicine?
Helping patients and their families. Whether it is acute issue like a respiratory infection or managing chronic conditions like diabetes or cardiac disease, making a difference in someone's healthcare is always the best part.
What is your least favorite part of your job?
Fighting with the insurance companies regarding medications and/or prior authorizations for studies ordered.
What do your patients say about you?
That I take the time to listen to them and help them get to the root of their problems rather than placing a Band-Aid on their situation.
What interests you most about working at Life Coast Community Health Center?
Interdisciplinary Collaboration. Having multiple specialties at our fingertips. It is difficult to treat patients when we cannot refer them, but working at Life Coast allows us to offer our patients more.
What are your key responsibilities within the clinic?
Currently, I am the only provider here Monday through Friday. I see patients daily for acute, chronic illnesses or wellness visits. I am able to assess, diagnosis and treat patients from birth to older adults.
Who inspires you?
My parents. They have both reached retirement (which is the goal), but my dad would probably agree with the quote (at times): “Find a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.”
Do you have a motto or personal mantra?
“Trust God and do good.” This reminder is taped to my desktop computer.
What are you most passionate about professionally?
I’ve always loved women’s health, and I still do. In my current role, I find myself gravitating more towards wellness/preventative care and utilizing our screening tools that are appropriate based on age or personal/family history.
What most excites you about your work and the contribution you make?
Hearing back from patients whether it’s at their follow up appointment or through a satisfaction survey that we are making a difference in their health or simply doing a good job.
What are you passionate about personally?
My faith is very important to me. I am also passionate about my relationships with my husband, family and friends.
What is your favorite pastime outside of work?
I enjoy dining out, traveling, reading, and exercise-the basics 😊
Any volunteer activities or nonprofits you love and why?
I am a member of a women's nonprofit organization called Femmes Natales. We raise money to give back to the community and volunteer at various fundraisers throughout the year.
Life Coast is pleased have dedicated medical personnel such as Maria Williams on our team, and we look forward to serving you. Call 985-492-6170 to schedule an appointment with Maria or one of our other dedicated professionals.