Ruth Louise Neal, NP

About Ruth Neal

The first degree Ruth Neal, FNP, earned in Aviation Maintenance Technology led to four years working as an Aerospace Maintenance Journeyman / Crew Chief. “After leaving the military, I wanted to find another job which would allow me to continue serving the community, but in a way I could be home for my kids every night,” she says.

Ruth earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, at MidAmerica Nazarene University, Olathe, KS. She then pursued her Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, Nashville, TN.

In her role as a family nurse practitioner, Ruth helps people manage hormone-related health issues like diabetes and thyroid disorders. “A big part of my job is helping patients understand their conditions and feel confident managing them,” she says.

Ruth chose this specialty because of a personal experience. “My son was diagnosed with Autoimmune Polyendocrine Syndrome Type 1 when he was young, and I’ve been …navigating the world of endocrinology as a parent ever since,” she says.

In practicing medicine, Ruth believes in meeting people where they are — balancing medical expertise with practical advice, empathy, and partnership. “Every patient is different, and sometimes the best outcomes come from thinking creatively, adapting plans, and truly partnering with patients to find what works for them,” she says.

In her own words…

Who is or was the most influential people/role models in your life? My dad. He is the most honest and selfless person I’ve ever met, and I try every day to make him proud.

What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it? A cashier at Burlington Coat Factory. It wasn’t glamorous, but it taught me the basics of customer service and showing up on time – even when I didn’t feel like it.

What is your favorite food? I love food with bold flavors and lots of spices.

What was your best/worst subjects in school growing up? I’ve always loved math. I appreciate that there can be many ways to reach the right answer, but there’s still only one correct solution. My worst subject was English -- it felt too abstract.

If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased) who would it be and why? Honestly, I enjoy the people I already have in my life. They’re who I’d want around my dinner table. And besides, they say you should never meet your heroes.

In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? My family. They are and always will be my top priority.

What are your hobbies, interests? I absolutely love to travel and experience new places and cultures.

Do you have pets? Yes – two mischievous, lovable, ginger cats named Fred and George.

What is something most people don’t know about you? I worked as an aircraft maintainer in the military for four years, but I’ve never worked on a car.