story and photo by Vickie Jenkins, staff writer
Oklahoma City Indian Clinic provides culturally sensitive and wellness services from talented and devoted providers. There services are designed to address a spectrum of health needs, offering preventive screening, chronic disease management, and personalized care to foster overall well-being.
One of the standout nurses at Oklahoma City Indian Clinic is Robert Bullard, LPN, who brings a decade of nursing experience. Robert is an invaluable member of the team bringing both expertise and compassion to his role. Specializing in urgent care, Robert thrives in the fast-paced environment, where each day presents new challenges and opportunities. “In urgent care, we see about 40 to 50 patients a day, so we stay pretty busy” Robert explained. His ability to manage such a high volume of patients with efficiently and care is a testament to his skill and dedication. Despite the demanding nature of the job, Robert finds it very rewarding. “Every day is different, and that’s what I love about it,” he said. “We’re constantly on our toes but it’s fulfilling to know that we’re providing immediate and necessary care to those in need.
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Raised in the small town of Okmulgee, in Eastern Oklahoma, Robert grew up in a family deeply impacted by alcoholism. During his childhood, his grandmother moved in with his family when she was no longer able to live independently. This early exposure to caregiving played a significant role in shaping Robert’s passion for nursing. This is when Robert developed an interest in learning about the disorders of the brain and nervous system. Robert knew from an early age that he wanted to pursue a career in the medical field, with aspirations of becoming a neurologist.
While still in school, Robert began his journey in healthcare by working as a Certified Nursing Assistant at a long-term care facility. It was in this environment that he found fulfillment by providing hands-on-care to patients and making a difference in their lives. Motivated by this passion, he continued to pursue further education and training. After graduating from Grand County Technology Center, Okmulgee, OK, he advanced his career by becoming a Certified Medication Aide. His dedication and hard work quickly paid off, and by the age of 19, he had achieved his LPN certification. This early start not only gave him a solid foundation for his nursing career but also demonstrated his commitment to serving others in the healthcare field.
Robert explained why he enjoys working at the Indian clinic. “First of all, it’s the atmosphere,” he said. “The environment here is great. We truly are like a close-knit family. We all get along well and are supportive of one another.” Beyond the supportive work environment, Robert feels a deep connection to the clinic’s mission. “I love working here because I am part Cherokee,” he explained. “It gives me the opportunity to give back to my community and work directly with the Cherokee people. Being able to contribute to the health and well-being of my own community is something I am deeply proud of.” This sense of belonging and purpose is what drives Roberts’ dedication to his work every day. “I am proud to work here at the Indian clinic.”
When asked about his greatest reward as a nurse, Robert paused for a moment. “I think it’s those moments when a patient walks in feeling absolutely miserable, and by the time they leave, you can see a noticeable difference that they feel much better,” he said. “There is something fulfilling about knowing that we have provided the best care possible and made a real impact on their well-being. It might sound a bit selfish but helping someone feel better also helps me. It gives me a sense of purpose and reminds me why I chose this path. Seeing the positive change in a patient is not just a reward, it’s confirming that the work we’re doing here is meaningful. This connecting to patient care is what continuously inspires me as a nurse.”
Robert’s hobbies include, buying house plants, woodworking, camping and hiking. “Really, I like anything that gets me outdoors. Also, I like to travel,” he said. Beyond his love for nature and hands-on projects, Robert cherishes quality time with his family. “My daughter just started kindergarten, and she’s five years old,” he said with a proud smile. “My wife and I are having a lot of fun with her different activities. It’s been an adventure, and we’re enjoying every moment.”
