Kathi White, ARNP

“Cancer affects every aspect of a patient’s life,” says Kathi White, advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP) in radiation oncology. “My role is to help manage the disease and its implications.”

White is one of the first faces patients meet in the radiation oncology department. She reviews patients’ medical history, performs physical exams, teaches about radiation and symptom management, and assists patients in making informed decisions about their care. “I am a member of an extraordinary radiation oncology team whose role is to educate and support patients and their families through all aspects of their care,” she says.

White also provides connections to resources within Group Health and the local community for nutritional care, home care, support resources—any need that impacts the patient and family physically, psychologically, socially, or spiritually. “I cannot change that a patient has a cancer diagnosis, but I do believe that I can make a huge difference in how their care experience goes for them.”

White became a clinical nurse specialist in 1986. She joined Group Health in 1992 as a Home Health & Hospice clinical nurse specialist and became an adult nurse practitioner in 1999. She began working in Group Health’s Radiation Oncology department in 2000.

“I believe that trust needs to be built. I strive to keep dialogue open,” she says. “I want to give patients space to talk about their treatment, goals, fears, and to receive the reassurance they need throughout their care. It is profound to be in that position of trust, and I respect it.”

When White isn’t working, she spends time with her partner, family and friends. She participates monthly with Habitat for Humanity builds and participates as the Volunteer Coordinator with her church for their annual Rebuilding Together Seattle service project. Working in the cancer field keeps her keenly aware of the preciousness of each moment, of each interaction, relationship and connection, of giving and receiving… she is grateful for these lessons.

Patient Care Philosophy

“I believe in partnering with and advocating for patients. It is my passion to educate and empower patients, to manage their symptoms, and to assist them in achieving the best quality of life during their cancer treatment and beyond.”

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing, University of Virginia, 1980
• Master of Science in Nursing, University of Washington, 1986
• Post-Master Adult Nurse Practitioner, University of Washington, 1999
  Contact information: 206-326-3490