At 19, Erica Lapinsky began her nursing career at AdventHealth. Over the years, she advanced to become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), joining a group of highly trained clinicians known as advanced practice providers (APPs).
Lapinsky’s journey from registered nurse to APRN required persistence and balancing multiple responsibilities. She returned to school while raising children and working night shifts. AdventHealth provided education benefits that helped cover some costs, but Lapinsky credits her colleagues for their support through advice, schedule adjustments, and mentorship during clinical rotations.
“There were nights I came home from a shift, helped with homework, and then opened my laptop for my own assignments,” she said. “It was exhausting at times, but I wanted my kids to see that if you work hard, new doors can open.”
Lapinsky now works as a neuro-hospitalist APRN at AdventHealth Daytona Beach. She chose to remain with the organization because of familiar colleagues and opportunities for growth.
“Moving into advanced practice didn’t mean starting over,” she said. “It meant building on everything I had already learned here: how to read a room, how to support a family and how to work together when the pressure is high.”
Nationwide demand for APPs is increasing rapidly. In Florida specifically, there is a projected shortage of nearly 18,000 physicians by 2035. APPs are expected to play an important role in addressing this gap.
“In a state facing significant physician shortages, our physicians and APPs each play vital roles,” said Dr. Darin Jordan, chief medical officer for AdventHealth Medical Group. “APPs make a real difference in patient access and quality of care, and together with our physicians, they help us deliver exceptional, whole-person care.”
AdventHealth’s East Florida Division continues expanding by opening new access points and hiring more clinicians in Flagler, Lake, and Volusia counties. Retaining local talent remains important as the organization grows.
“We’re proud to invest in our APPs, not just when they request tuition support, but by creating pathways for them to grow their careers with us,” said Michele Goeb-Burkett, senior vice president and chief nursing officer for the East Florida Division. “This is about building long-term connections so we can meet patient needs while helping team members reach their full potential.”
Lapinsky received support from mentors who encouraged her applications and managers who adjusted schedules during demanding periods like finals week.
She advises new nurses: talk with your leader; find a mentor you trust; seek roles that offer learning opportunities.
AdventHealth Orlando is located in Orlando, Florida. Founded in 1908 under its current president Terry Shaw,the hospital serves as both a pediatric facility and training hospital.
For those interested in health care careers or clinical placements at AdventHealth facilities such as Orlando or Daytona Beach campuses—including resources connecting students with future opportunities—more information can be found on AdventHealth’s Academic Clinical Resource Page.
