Dr. Rachel Koransky-Matson
Within her community in rural Maine, Frontier Nursing University alumnus Dr. Rachel Koransky-Matson stands as a beacon of transformative healthcare, especially for those affected by diabetes. Graduating as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in 2016 and completing her Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in 2017, Dr. Koransky-Matson said her journey began with a resounding desire to make a difference which led her to FNU.
“Frontier’s mission statement and vision to provide care for underserved communities and create entrepreneurial leaders is what I want to do with my career,” she said.
Dr. Koransky-Matson’s current role as a Diabetes Nurse Practitioner has placed her at the forefront of healthcare in an underserved, rural landscape. She serves in the northernmost endocrinology department in the U.S., excluding Alaska, catering to patients of all ages grappling with diabetes. Working in the practice since May 2022, Dr. Koransky-Matson’s relentless efforts have resulted in an over 20% improvement in the Hemoglobin A1C <9% rate of patients at the practice within just one year, a testament to her dedication and expertise.
In her practice, Dr. Koransky-Matson cares for type one, type two and gestational diabetes patients, over 90 percent of whom are on Medicare and/or Medicaid. Despite resource constraints, she works hand-in-hand with each patient, crafting healthcare goals that accommodate the unique challenges of the community.
“My patients are complex and diverse,” she said.
Before working in her current practice, Dr. Koransky-Matson worked across the country at multiple clinics with various populations in her capacity as a locum. Beyond her clinical achievements, she has also authored textbooks and has been featured in publications such as Forbes.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Dr. Koransky-Matson leads a fulfilling life on a farm, surrounded by her family and an assortment of animals, including rabbits, goats, chickens, cats and dogs.
Reflecting on her time in the family nurse practitioner program at FNU, Dr. Koransky-Matson acknowledges the lifelong friendships she forged during her educational journey. She said the FNU network has been a cornerstone in supporting her career, fostering connections that have bolstered her mission to bring positive change to healthcare.
“My Frontier education made it possible,” she said.
Thank you, Rachel, for empowering your community, advancing healthcare and exemplifying the values of FNU.
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