An injury as a teenager sparked an interest in medicine and propelled Nick Lueddecke into a career as a physician assistant.
“While in high school, I sustained a shoulder injury that required physical therapy. Initially, I had a desire to pursue physical therapy as I enjoyed seeing their blend of advanced medical knowledge combined with hands-on interventions. This changed when I began practicing as an emergency medical technician (EMT)," said Lueddecke, who earned his paramedic technician degree from Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. “Although I loved every aspect of emergency medicine, I wished to find a career where I was able to expand my scope of practice while focusing on providing care for more than a short ambulance ride."
In his role as a hospitalist, Lueddecke coordinates and cares for patients with varying conditions.
“As a hospitalist, I have the opportunity to see patients from all backgrounds, with any type of medical concern," Lueddecke said. “I love the complex medical puzzles that must be solved to ensure my patients receive the best care. As I care for both acute and chronic concerns, I am blessed to have the time to build a lasting relationship with each of my patients."
Being a hospitalist provides Lueddecke an opportunity to connect with patients when they are at their most vulnerable.
“I love the challenge of understanding the complexity of the human body, seeing the strength of the human spirit as a patient makes a recovery, and the privilege to be able to meet every patient and their family as I learn their unique story so I may better serve them," he said.
Lueddecke's patient care philosophy focuses on the patient coming first.
“As the world of medicine is drastically changing from external stressors, it is easy to lose sight of what brought us here in the first place," he said. “I strive to take the time to be an active listener with each patient, celebrating their moments of joy and walking beside them when times become challenging. I will be there every step of the way."
A native of Central Wisconsin, Lueddecke earned a master's degree in physician assistant studies from Augsburg University in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and a bachelor's degree in biology from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
“My roots have always been in the Central Wisconsin area, being born and raised in this area," he said. “I received my primary care through Marshfield Clinic and loved every interaction I had. The Midwestern values of respect, care for the local community, and a sense of humbleness are palpable."