We are pleased to present the next in our weekly series introducing you to Internal Medicine’s Advanced Practice Providers. In addition to sharing information about where they work in the department, we asked them each to tell us a little bit about their “Why” (the sustaining pull for their work) and what relaxes them. (Read previous weeks’ installments.)

Jolene McAdam, MSN, ARNP
General Internal Medicine

Service: Palliative and Supportive Care

Time with Internal Medicine: 9 months

Hometown: Cascade, Iowa

My “WHY”: In palliative care, we see people in their most vulnerable moments. My hope is that I can be a vector to help alleviate their suffering. I strive to make an impactful impression upon their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. The patients who honor me by inviting me into their lives teach me so much about life and the life cycle. It is a privilege to have my world view enhanced in an infinite number of positive ways.

What Relaxes Me: I find my calm in nature. I enjoy almost all outdoor activities as long as they don’t involve heights. In the summer you can find me hiking, fishing, canoeing, boating, or gardening.

Jolene told me that before she joined the palliative care team about 8 months ago she had “no idea about the intensity and demands of a palliative care practice.” She is a quick learner, willing to be vulnerable and ask questions. As a result, she smoothly integrated with the interdisciplinary Palliative care team.

– – Timothy Thomsen, MD