Paola N. Hernandez, FNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with TPMG Thimble Shoals Family Medicine in Newport News. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the Universidad de Puerto Rico in Arecibo, Puerto Rico. After several years of experience as a professional nurse, Paola relocated to the United States, where she earned her Master of Science in Nursing, with a focus on Family Nurse Practitioner, from Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Paola belongs to the National Society of Leadership & Success (NSLS) and joined TPMG in 2026.

From an early age, Paola fostered a meaningful connection to nursing through her grandmother, who served as a nurse. Inspired by her grandmother’s experiences and dedication to caring for others, Paola pursued her own career in healthcare. After becoming a registered nurse, Paola developed a strong commitment to providing exceptional, patient-centered care and consistently going beyond the standard of practice. Her dedication, combined with a desire to expand her clinical knowledge and impact, further motivated Paola to become a nurse practitioner.

As a family nurse practitioner, Paola prioritizes patient safety by practicing evidence-based medicine, collaborating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams, and continually expanding her clinical knowledge and skills to provide accurate and effective care. Trust and open communication are foundational to her approach to high-quality patient care. Paola practices active listening with her patients, ensuring she addresses their concerns and educates them on strategies to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Above all, Paola strives to advocate for her patients and deliver individualized care with empathy and integrity, supporting patients and their families on their journey to achieve optimal health and well-being throughout every stage of life

Believing that effective family practice extends beyond treating acute illness and chronic disease, Paola also delivers health promotion, disease prevention, and patient education. She provides comprehensive, holistic care to individuals and families across their lifespan for a variety of acute and chronic conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, anxiety and depression, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and urinary tract infections (UTIs), among others. Paola has a particular medical interest in women’s health, dermatological conditions, and more. After working with patients with HIV in her clinical training, she also has an in-depth understanding of HIV management, including patient education, treatment adherence, and holistic care.

When she isn’t in the office, Paola can be found spending quality time with her husband and dogs. She also enjoys reading, exploring new places, and shopping online. Paola warmly welcomes patients to make an appointment to see her at TPMG Thimble Shoals Family Medicine.

Education

Undergraduate: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Universidad de Puerto Rico
Graduate: Master of Science in Nursing, Focus on Family Nurse Practitioner, Walden University

Interests & Activities

Member, National Society of Leadership & Success (NSLS)