Mary Acosta, FNP

Ellen Greear is a family nurse practitioner who has been working in family and internal medicine for several years. She became a nurse practitioner after working in inpatient cardiology and pulmonology in Atlanta. Her background as a collegiate runner at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga led her into a career focused on health and wellness. She enjoys taking care of patients of all ages and collaborating with them when making treatment plans. She believes that patients are more successful in managing their health when they are empowered to play an active role in their treatment. Greear enjoys being outside as much as possible while running, hiking and spending time with her husband, Scott, and two children, Mason and Sarah.

My mother worked in the medical field, and I've always loved helping people. So, a career in medicine was a natural fit for me. \n I love teaching! I want my patients to leave their appointment understanding their condition, the best course of treatment and the plan we've discussed. Healthcare is a team effort. \n I grew up in North Carolina. I was a nurse for 10 years before returning to school to get an advanced degree to become a nurse practitioner. \n In my free time, I enjoy baking and being outside with my family.

Earlier in my career, I was a neurocritical care nurse at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center. Caring for those critically ill patients was not only rewarding, it also showed me the profound impact that preventive care can have on long-term health outcomes. I wanted to pursue family medicine as a nurse practitioner because the role allows me to offer that preventive care across life's stages. It also lets me build lasting relationships with patients and help them take control of their health before serious illness occurs. \n I believe in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. That's why listening to my patients is so important. I need to understand their unique story so I can create a personalized care plan that fits their lifestyle and goals. If I offer up a plan that does not work with the life they live, it will not be successful. \n Charlotte has been my home since I moved to the Queen City from Louisville, Kentucky. My husband and I love exploring the area while walking our dog, Belle. I also love baking, traveling and staying active through long-distance running and skiing.