No question about it, Blair Mayfield’s career highlight occurred when one of her patients showed up for her 3-year wellness checkup dressed as Blair herself, complete with a lab coat and stethoscope. The tiny admirer explained the reason behind her outfit was that she wanted to be just like “Dr. Blair” when she grew up.
It is moments like this that remind our newest certified nurse practitioner at Akron Children’s Hospital Pediatrics, Lorain and Oberlin why she made the switch to primary care. To her, it’s a privilege to build strong doctor-patient relationships as children grow from birth into adolescence, while at the same time, helping parents navigate their children’s development.
As part of the team to build and enhance pediatric care in Lorain County, Blair is eager to grow a patient base and connect with Lorain families so she can experience many more moments like this one. After all, Blair hopes to be remembered as the positive, always-smiling, lending-an-ear kind of provider.
Why did you choose to come to Akron Children’s Hospital?
I chose to come to Akron Children’s because I have many colleagues and friends who work here and absolutely love the health system. In addition, I’m coming from a health-care system that refers patients to all Akron Children’s specialties, and I have felt so encouraged and welcomed by the providers with whom I’ve collaborated. Luckily, a new primary care office opened near my home in Lorain, enabling this desire to become reality.
Describe your role at Akron Children’s and what you hope to accomplish?
I work in primary care as a nurse practitioner at Akron Children’s Hospital Pediatrics, Lorain. I am eager to grow a patient base and help guide parents in the growth and development of their children.
Blair Mayfield enjoys spending time with her twin sister, Clair, and their older sister, Jocelyn.
What is your area of expertise and why did you choose it?
As a primary care nurse practitioner, it is a privilege to be a part of watching children grow from birth into adolescence, and I love helping parents navigate through their children’s development.
Do you have a favorite instructor or mentor?
While attending the University of Akron for graduate school, I met my favorite instructor-turned-mentor, Linda Kerr. Linda has a passion for pediatric primary care that is contagious. I feel so blessed that she shares that passion with her students, as she did with me. She is brilliant, and the best go-to for guidance both professionally and personally.
When did you decide to become a provider and why?
Previously, I worked in a local pediatric hospital as a floor nurse. I loved being a floor nurse, but as I grew in my profession, I felt a yearning to be a decision maker. As a nurse, I spent much of my day executing the plan of the residents and medical team and I yearned to be an active participant in the medical decision making. My best friend asked if I wanted to go back to school, so we did it together!
What achievements are you most proud of?
One of my primary care patients came to her 3-year wellness checkup dressed up as me, in a lab coat and stethoscope, because she wants to be just like “Dr. Blair.” It truly has been the highlight of my APRN career.
Blair’s 4-year-old French Bulldog, Peaches
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Bay Village, Ohio, as one of 3 daughters to our parents, Gay and Bruce. I have an older sister, Jocelyn, and a twin sister, Clair. My twin sister and I still live together, and throughout the COVID pandemic have been blessed to also have our older sister, Jocelyn (who typically lives in Chicago), also live with us!
I am very close to my family. We visit our parents often and at least every Sunday for “Sunday Supper.” I also have a 4-year-old puppy sister, Peaches. She is a white French Bulldog and is full of personality!
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Growing up, I wanted to be a paramedic. I loved watching the show, “Rescue 911,” and dreamt of a life that was high energy and being on the scene of accidents, helping people at their most vulnerable. My parents supported that goal, however, my mom encouraged me to become a nurse first.
While working at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital as a nurse, I grew attached to the connection between my patients and wanted something more long lasting, which ultimately led me to pediatric primary care.
How would you like to be remembered?
I would like to be remembered as someone who is positive, always has a smile on her face and is willing to listen. I think communication is the biggest struggle that we all face in both our personal and professional lives that leads to many more problems. If I can be approachable and kind with a positive personality, that would make me as happy as can be.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
My favorite vacation spot is Maui! Need I say more? … I love the laid-back atmosphere of Hawaii, coupled with the sunshine and beautiful ocean. It’s the best place ever.
