Tina Shehee joined MedLink Georgia’s Oglethorpe office this year as a nurse practitioner for patients 6 and up. Shehee was a registered nurse for 23 years, then returned to school and received her nurse practitioner license in 2019. Both of her degrees are from the University of North Georgia. The Oglethorpe Echo recently sat down with her to learn more about her position and her plans for health education in Oglethorpe County.
Comments have been edited for length and clarity.
Q: What brought you to Oglethorpe County?
A: I was raised in Hart County and moved to Madison County in 2021. Specifically, I like MedLink and its mission. I’d always heard great things about them, so I was trying to get my foot in the door.
Q: What do you feel is done well in this area when it comes to health? What do you feel needs improvement?
A: So, definitely, resources for patients, as far as obtaining medications and having transportation to get to and from medical appointments. I feel like those areas could be improved. On the other hand, it’s because so much is needed in this area that I feel like people are more appreciative of the care that you give them.
Q: What do you wish more people understood about best practices for medical issues?
A: The appropriate use of antibiotics, when medications are appropriate. If you’re not given a specific medication, there’s usually a good reason for that.
Q: What is something that you would like to tackle or see change when it comes to health care in the area?
A: Diabetes. Definitely diabetes. I want people to understand that I can give you the medication, but you can’t rely solely on the medication. We have to work together with lifestyle changes, or else it’s two forces butting heads, and we’ll never make any headway with that.
Q: What do you wish more people would understand about your job?
A: The things I’m teaching you and the tools I’m trying to give to you to manage your care are coming from a place within me to want you to be better. There's nothing selfish about it. It’s not for my benefit.
Q: What has been your favorite part about the job?
A: My favorite part is actually teaching people, giving them information and taking care of them. I’ve always believed that you can’t just tell someone what to do. They have to know why. And once they understand why, they’re more likely to understand your point of view and do what you’re asking them to do.
Q: What is your favorite restaurant or place to go in Oglethorpe County?
A: G Brand BBQ. It’s the best brisket sandwich.