Melissa Winckler, DNP, FNP-C, ARNP

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Winckler
Melissa Winckler, DNP, FNP-C, ARNP
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Melissa Winckler, DNP, FNP-C, ARNP

  • Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner, Fred Hutch
  • Teaching Associate, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine

“I witness patients facing some of the hardest days of their lives, and they do it with such grace, kindness and compassion. It’s truly a gift to come to work every day.”

— Melissa


What do you enjoy about practicing oncology?

I began my career as a nurse in oncology, so I’ve always loved working with patients who are dealing with cancer diagnoses. When I went back to graduate school to become a nurse practitioner, I continued to feel drawn toward this field, yet I also wanted to work in an inpatient setting. Many of the patients I work with now are experiencing acute problems related to their diagnosis or treatment. It’s rewarding to apply critical thinking skills and collaborate with team members — and patients themselves — to help solve these problems. I witness patients facing some of the hardest days of their lives, and they do it with such grace, kindness and compassion. It’s truly a gift to come to work every day.

How do you help patients through difficult moments?

Patients face many unknowns as they pursue cancer treatment, and that can feel daunting. I strive to help patients and families break the experience down into smaller, more manageable chunks and to focus on what’s in front of them in the moment rather than the entirety of the long road ahead. Sometimes a “good” day can be defined by setting and achieving small goals, such as getting a troublesome symptom under control or even developing a better understanding of one’s diagnosis.

Provider Background

Inpatient Care

I am an advanced registered nurse practitioner with a doctorate in nursing practice. As a member of the hematology-oncology inpatient service, I provide care for patients with a variety of cancers and benign conditions who have been admitted to UW Medical Center - Montlake. My approach to care is based on clear communication and collaborative decision-making. I believe it’s important for each patient, their family and their health care team to work together to come up with a plan of care that keeps the patient’s best interests and goals in mind.

Languages

English

Education, Experience and Certifications

Medical Degree
University of Utah College of Nursing

Board Certification
Family Nurse Practitioner, 2014, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners

Awards

Seattle Met's 2023 Top Doctors award
Melissa has received this peer-nominated award for exceptional patient care for multiple years.

Clinical Trials

We make promising new treatments available to you through studies called clinical trials led by Fred Hutch physicians. Many of these trials at Fred Hutch have led to FDA-approved treatments and have improved standards of care globally. Together, you and your physician can decide if a study is right for you. 

Your Care Team

At Fred Hutch, you receive care from a team of providers with extensive experience in your disease. Your team includes physicians, a patient care coordinator, a registered nurse, an advanced practice provider and others, based on your needs. You also have access to experts like registered dietitians, social workers, acupuncturists, psychiatrists and more who specialize in supporting people with cancer or blood disorders. 

Insurance

Fred Hutch accepts most national private health insurance plans as well as Medicare. We also accept Medicaid for people from Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho. We are working to ensure that everyone, no matter what their financial situation, has access to the care they need.