Tara J. Whitmire, APRN-CNP

Tara Whitmire, DNP, APRN-NP, CHFN, desired to be a helper from a young age. After receiving her bachelor's degree in psychology, she went on to study nursing, eventually becoming a nurse practitioner.

Whitmire spent the majority of her nursing career caring for cardiac patients, which kindled her passion for cardiology. As a nurse practitioner in cardiothoracic surgery with Methodist Physicians Clinic, she enjoys learning what's important to her patients and how she can help them on their health journey.

"I will treat you as part of my family," she said. "I will be honest with you, discuss all the options available to you and sit down and listen to your concerns. The Meaning of Care means listening with my ears and heart!"

She believes that the most important part of the provider-patient relationship is trust.

"I have to trust that the patient is being honest and straightforward in sharing their health issues and concerns," she said. "And the patient has to trust that I have their best interest at hand and will not misguide them."

Outside of work, Whitmire is a passionate Kansas City Chiefs fan and loves reading with her daughter.