Dr. Tammy O’Rourke is a nurse practitioner, educator, researcher, and health system innovator with over two decades of experience advancing nursing practice across Canada. She currently serves as Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Health Disciplines at Athabasca University and maintains clinical practice through a virtual nurse practitioner–led service focused on improving access to care.
Dr. O’Rourke has led the development of nurse practitioner-led clinics and innovative models of community-based care, including academic-practice partnerships and integrated services supporting healthy aging.
She has worked with governments, academic institutions, and health-care organizations across multiple provinces to advance policy, education, and system transformation. Her research and leadership focus on workforce optimization, primary care innovation, and improving outcomes for patients and communities. She has held national service roles, contributed to regulatory and accreditation processes, and is recognized for her strategic, collaborative approach to leadership.
Dr. O’Rourke is a strong advocate for nursing leadership and the advancement of the profession, bringing a pan-Canadian perspective and a commitment to strengthening health-care systems for all.