As a nurse practitioner with the CalvertHealth weight management team, Jessica Erisman helps patients to obtain a healthier weight and improve chronic conditions through dietary counseling, lifestyle coaching and medication management.

Erisman describes her philosophy of care as a partnership with her patients. “I want my patients to feel empowered and motivated to improve their health after their first visit with me,” she said. “In follow-up visits I hope patients see me as not only their provider but their partner in their journey to better health.” She went on to add, “I want patients to feel excited to come weigh in, talk about their struggles and successes and feel comfortable to ask questions and report any concerns with their plan of care.”

Erisman obtained her bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Maryland School of Nursing in Baltimore. She then worked five years as a registered across many specialties including cardiology, acute rehabilitation, school health and public health. It was there she found her passion for preventive care and patient education. This inspired her to go back to school to become a nurse practitioner so she could directly help patients lead healthier lives and better control their chronic conditions.

Although she completed eight years of higher education, Erisman said she considers herself a lifelong learner. “I enjoy learning the latest and greatest about obesity medicine to make sure I am providing the highest quality, evidence-based care to my patients.”

She has a special interest in type 2 diabetes management in both adults and children. “Many aspects of managing obesity also positively impact diabetes management. I am also interested in women’s health with a particular interest in weight management among women who are postpartum or postmenopausal, and those with PCOS, all of which are especially susceptible to weight gain during hormonal changes.”