Deborah Busch, C.R.N.P.

Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner

Why did you choose to become a certified pediatric nurse practitioner?

I became a nurse practitioner after being a pediatric nurse for five years and volunteering for the Peace Corps in Nepal. I felt I wanted to be able to take care of my patients at a whole new level. Advanced practice nursing combines wonderful aspects of both nursing and medicine, rolled into one profession. My patients benefit from both realms of education. I also chose to become a Lactation Consultant because of the importance of breast-feeding to the health of my tiny pediatric patients and their whole lives.

As a nurse practitioner, what kinds of patients do you see?

I see patients of all ages. I treat primarily pediatric illness, well visits, long-term issues such as asthma, obesity, developmental issues, and of course lots of baby issues such as breast-feeding and newborn well visits. I was one of the first nurse practitioners in the Lehigh Valley to obtain prescription writing privileges. Patients can call and request well or sick visits directly with me.

What is your philosophy of caring for patients?

I think it's important to incorporate the whole family dynamics and offer health treatment not only to the child, but for the whole family, so it benefits the child's health. I feel the parents need to be aware and involved in decision-making about their child's health and I specifically take the time to teach parents the why's and how's of what I am doing.

What is your style of working with patients?

I'm very hands-on. I enjoy talking with the families as much as possible. Especially with my lactation patients, who need lots of extra TLC in the beginning.

What is the most rewarding part of taking care of patients?

I feel actual joy when I am helping a family with their child's health and being a resource and comfort in times of need.

What new innovations in medicine excite you the most?

I get very excited about the new research regarding human breast milk. The current research shows just how amazing human milk is. I am also interested in the new research regarding autism and new treatment options.

What defines you as a nurse practitioner?

I feel I am defined by my openness and willingness to incorporate families into decision-making and care aspects. I am always trying to give them as much information as I can, and I treat my patients as if they were my children. I hope my patients realize I treat both from the heart and my education. I blend the two.

What do you do in your spare time?

In my spare time, my goal is to find balance! I spend a lot of time doing school and sports activities with my three kids. Both my husband and I volunteer in community sports programs, and I volunteer at two of my kids' schools weekly. For myself, I have found a new hobby in triathlons. I have been training for triathlons for over a year now, and completed my first this year and plan on racing in more to come. I love it! Our whole family is also involved with our church, volunteering and participating in lots of year-round activities, which I really enjoy.

Education

B.S. in Nursing, Temple University
M.S. in Nursing as Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Gwynedd Mercy College
R.N. and C.R.N.P. Board Certified in Pediatrics

Pediatric Training

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Additional Certification

Certified Lactation Consultant