By Ruthann Carr
Correspondent
When Family Nurse Practitioner Amy Beyer and her family moved to 2611 Thomas Jefferson Parkway she knew it was the place to make her dream come true.
Behind the large colonial home was a 2,000-square foot building being used for storage. It would become Beyer’s health clinic.
For eight years Beyer honed her craft, working in several medical specialty areas. After spending time updating the building, now she’s open for business. The clinic boasts three patient rooms, a bright, soothing reception area and everything Beyer needs to serve patients.
The Fluvanna Review visited Beyer and toured the clinic. Here are her answers to questions the Review asked.
What exactly is the Fluvanna Health Clinic and what is your dream for its future?
Fluvanna Health Clinic is an independently owned clinic providing primary care, sick visits, sports/employment/DOT physicals, lab services, and drug screenings to patients of all ages. My dream for the clinic is to provide a welcoming clinic space where patients can receive quality-based health care as I assist them on their healthcare journey.
What is your work and educational background?
I received my Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Liberty University in 2007 and graduated from James Madison University with my Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner in 2014. My work experience has included working inpatient at UVA, dialysis, urgent care, hospice, and post- acute rehab. My diverse work experience has provided me the experience to provide well rounded care to our community.
If you are not a physician (medical doctor) how can you operate a clinic? Do you have a doctor under whose supervision you work?
Just like many states, Virginia does not require experienced certified Nurse Practitioners to hold a collaborative physician/nurse practitioner agreement. Healthcare is like a team sport, there are many players with different abilities and functions. This is practically seen as I collaborative daily with other providers in the area. I have always believed that collaborative care is good care and collaboration goes both ways between nurse practitioners, physicians, social workers, therapists, and other various health specialties. Throughout my work experience I’ve had physicians call me with medical questions or ask for advice- the same holds true for me collaborating with others.
As an independently owned clinic I am uniquely positioned to work collaboratively with all hospital systems/offices. With today’s technologies it is very easy to communicate with other providers even if we are not located in traditional adjoining offices. The unique setting also gives me the flexibility to spend more time with patients when needed and not get caught in the rat race.
Tell us about your family.
My family is my pride and joy. I’ve been married to my husband Stephen for 13 years and we have a 12-year-old son who is growing up way too fast. Oh, and I can’t forget our lovely (and spoiled) Irish Doodle named Summer. She’s a medium sized dog who believes she’s a lap dog.
Both you and your husband are from Fluvanna. Tell us how being raised in Fluvanna contributed to who you are today and you opening the clinic.
My husband and I both grew up in Fluvanna and graduated from Fluvanna High School. At times I was one of those teenagers who didn’t always appreciate our small town. I had plans of living across the world but God had other plans for me. I moved back to Fluvanna after graduating from college, got married and our family has been settled here ever since. Having a life-long history in Fluvanna makes being a community health provider more personal. At a young age my mom was in a car accident here in Fluvanna which resulted in life changing challenges for her and our family. This community came alongside me when things got tough. We love this community and it’s a special place where people love well and care deeply. My desire is to serve my neighbors well through Fluvanna Health Clinic.
What was your first job?
My first jobs were at Video by the Lake and Armstrong fitness. I don’t recall which came first because I worked both of them at the same time. I remember going to take my driver’s test and then my dad took me around Fluvanna to fill out job applications. We were the type of family that believed if you’re old enough to drive, you better have a job to fill up the gas tank.
What type of food would you have difficulty living without and why?
Favorite type of food is definitely Mexican. The chef salad at El Vaquero is my favorite.
What’s your favorite way to relax?
Hanging out at the soccer field chatting with friends as my son plays.
What is your favorite family activity?
Definitely traveling – whether it be exploring Virginia or traveling across the world. Over the last seven years I’ve been able to co-lead trips to Liberia West Africa for the purpose of partnering with the local church in medical missions. In January 2020 I had the opportunity to bring my husband and son with me and that was an amazing adventure as we served in remote villages.
Fluvanna Health Clinic
2611 Thomas Jefferson Parkway
Palmyra, VA 22963
434-423-4311
www.fluvannahealthclinic.com
To make an appointment, call or go online.
