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Shaughnessy elevates advanced practice provider education

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Allysen Shaughnessy, DMSc, PA-C, the newly appointed director of advanced practice provider education at MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland, epitomizes dedication and excellence in the medical field. Graduating from the SIU MSPA program in 2014 and from the SIU DMSc program in 2022, her journey reflects a profound commitment to patient care, provider education, and professional advancement.

Shaughnessy’s path into medicine was deeply influenced by her mother’s battles with severe asthma and breast cancer; witnessing her mother’s struggles ignited her desire to become a health care provider dedicated to healing and patient education. She remarked, “Ultimately, seeing the compassionate care for my mom led me to choose a health care career.”

Allysen Shaughnessy with her mother at the 2022 SIU DMSc hooding ceremony

Initially aspiring to become a physician, her encounters with exemplary PAs during her shadowing experiences redirected her path. Inspired by their expertise, kindness and commitment to patient education, she embarked on a transformative journey to become a PA, choosing to study at Southern Illinois University’s esteemed MSPA program. At SIU, Shaughnessy found herself surrounded by mentors, peers and educators who believed in her potential as a caregiver and leader. Graduating class president in 2014, she quickly found employment, beginning her career journey.

With the encouragement of a friend and former classmate, she decided to continue her education nearly a decade into her career, leading her to return to SIU to pursue a Doctor of Medical Science degree. She faced the challenge of balancing full-time employment with academic pursuits. Through rigorous coursework and dedication, she refined her skills and laid the groundwork for her career progression.

Image of Allysen Shaughnessy with Dr. Chelsea Treece

In 2023, her hard work paid off. She was selected after a six-month nationwide search as the first director of APP education at MetroHealth Medical Center. “I started my new director position in January, and it only took a few days on the job to realize the impact my doctoral studies at SIU have had on my success and confidence in this role,” she said.

Shaughnessy’s commitment to advocacy, professional education and quality improvement will in turn help improve care and hone the talents of other advanced practice providers. Empowered by her SIU education, she champions growth opportunities for all APP personnel, inspiring her colleagues to pursue excellence in clinical practice and professional development.

 

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