Our team brings deep experience across clinical care, healthcare operations, strategy, and finance—united by a shared commitment to changing how primary care is delivered.
We believe meaningful change in healthcare requires being directly involved in care delivery. Our leaders include practicing clinicians and experienced healthcare executives who understand that improving patient experience, outcomes, and costs happens at the intersection of care, operations, and accountability. This perspective allows us to challenge outdated models and build a primary care system designed to work better—for members, employers, and care teams alike.
PA-C
Siena Andrus, PA-C, is a Physician Assistant with a background in primary care and specialized training in genomics. She enjoys working with patients of all ages and values a science-driven, personalized approach to medicine.
Maggie Austin, PMHNP, FNP, is a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her background allows her to address both physical and mental health needs, supporting a truly integrated approach to care.
Maggie believes mental and physical health are deeply connected and strives to create a safe, supportive environment for patients to discuss all aspects of their well-being. She values collaborative care, patient education, and individualized treatment plans. Maggie was drawn to Exemplar Care’s model because it allows for comprehensive, whole-person care without the constraints of traditional healthcare systems. Outside of work, she enjoys personal wellness activities and spending time with loved ones.
Jeffrey P. Baker, MSN, ARNP, NP-C, is a Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in emergency medicine and psychiatric care. His clinical background supports a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to primary care.
Jeffrey values compassion, clear communication, and continuity in healthcare. He believes in treating the whole person and collaborating closely with patients on their health goals. Outside of clinical practice, he enjoys lifelong learning and time with family.
ARNP
Jesse Becker, ARNP, is a Nurse Practitioner with a diverse clinical background that includes experience in medical-surgical care, intensive care, emergency medicine, and primary and urgent care settings. This broad foundation allows Jesse to confidently manage both acute and chronic conditions while maintaining a strong focus on preventive care.
Jesse believes in meeting patients where they are and creating a collaborative, supportive care environment. He values clear communication and patient education, ensuring individuals feel empowered to take an active role in their health. Jesse was drawn to Exemplar Care’s model because it prioritizes access, continuity, and meaningful patient relationships. Outside of clinical practice, he enjoys staying active and spending time with family.
PA-C
Cheryl Benson, PA-C, brings more than 30 years of clinical experience across occupational medicine, emergency medicine, and family practice. Her extensive background allows her to approach patient care with depth, perspective, and confidence.
Cheryl values long-term relationships with patients and believes trust is essential to effective care. She is passionate about preventive medicine and supporting patients through both acute concerns and ongoing health needs. Cheryl appreciates Exemplar Care’s focus on personalized, relationship-driven care. Outside of clinical practice, she enjoys time with family and staying engaged in her community.
FNP-C
Veronica Carter, FNP-C, is a Family Nurse Practitioner with experience providing comprehensive primary care to diverse patient populations. She is committed to continuous learning and delivering high-quality, evidence-based care.
Veronica’s care philosophy centers on empathy, communication, and partnership. She believes patients should feel supported and informed throughout their healthcare journey. Veronica values Exemplar Care’s emphasis on accessibility and long-term relationships. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and engaging in activities that promote wellness.
PA
Abigail Doud, PA, is a Physician Assistant with experience in urgent care and primary care settings. She is dedicated to providing efficient, high-quality care while ensuring patients feel supported and informed.
Abigail values a collaborative approach to healthcare and believes in empowering patients through education and clear communication. She was drawn to Exemplar Care’s model because it prioritizes access and continuity of care. Outside of clinical practice, she enjoys spending time with family and staying active.
CNP, FNP
Trent Graves, CNP, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in emergency medicine and urology. His diverse background allows him to manage a wide range of medical concerns within primary care.
Trent values practical, evidence-based care and clear communication with patients. He appreciates Exemplar Care’s focus on accessibility and long-term relationships. Outside of work, he enjoys staying active and spending time with family.
DNP
Brach Jones, DNP, is a Doctor of Nursing Practice with experience in family medicine and a strong commitment to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care. Her clinical background allows her to support patients across a wide range of health needs, from preventive care to chronic condition management.
Brach values building lasting relationships with her patients and believes that trust and communication are the foundation of effective care. She was drawn to Exemplar Care’s model because it prioritizes time with patients and a more personalized approach to healthcare. Outside of clinical practice, she enjoys spending time with her family and staying active in her community.
ARNP
Leah Kipp, ARNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner with a clinical background that spans multiple areas of patient care. She began her healthcare career as a Certified Nursing Assistant and bedside nurse before advancing her training as a nurse practitioner.
Leah is passionate about relationship-based medicine and believes high-quality care starts with trust, compassion, and clear communication. She values the opportunity to treat the whole person, not just individual symptoms, and focuses on preventive care alongside the management of acute and chronic conditions. Leah was drawn to Exemplar Care’s model because it prioritizes accessibility, longer visits, and meaningful patient-provider relationships. Outside of clinical practice, she enjoys spending time with her family and remaining engaged in her community.
PA-C
Melissa Kitto, PA-C, is a Physician Assistant and U.S. Army veteran with experience in family practice and urgent care. Her background has shaped a disciplined, patient-focused approach to medicine.
Melissa values trust, education, and collaboration in patient care. She believes healthcare should be accessible and responsive to individual needs. Melissa was drawn to Exemplar Care because of its emphasis on personalized care and continuity. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and remaining active.
DO
Nicholas Kuiper, DO, is a board-certified general surgeon at Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care with a diverse clinical background spanning surgical care, trauma, weight management, acute care, and comprehensive primary and preventive medicine. His breadth of experience allows him to approach patient care with a well-rounded perspective, addressing both immediate concerns and long-term health.
Dr. Kuiper’s approach to care is grounded in strong relationships, clear communication, and a focus on the whole person. He is known for his approachable demeanor and compassionate bedside manner, taking the time to fully understand each patient and provide personalized, thoughtful care.
His clinical experience across a range of care settings has shaped a practical, patient-centered approach that emphasizes both efficiency and quality, helping patients navigate care with greater confidence and clarity.
Dr. Kuiper earned his medical degree from Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine.
He was drawn to Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care because of its commitment to accessible, relationship-based care. Having worked within more complex healthcare systems, he values a model that removes traditional barriers and allows providers to focus on delivering a better, more connected experience for members.
Outside of practice, Dr. Kuiper enjoys golfing, working on home improvement projects, and spending time with his three children, supporting them in their many activities.
DNP, FNP-C, BSN
Haley Lammers, DNP, FNP-C, is a Nurse Practitioner with experience in urgent care and emergency medicine. Her background has equipped her to manage a wide range of acute conditions while maintaining a strong foundation in primary care.
Haley values efficiency, clarity, and compassion in patient interactions. She believes patients benefit most when care is timely, thorough, and centered on their individual needs. Haley was drawn to Exemplar Care’s model because it allows for continuity and proactive care rather than episodic visits. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and staying active.
ARNP FNP-BC
Angela Maral, ARNP, FNP-BC, is a Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in emergency medicine and direct primary care. She enjoys caring for patients across the lifespan and addressing both acute and chronic health needs.
Angela believes in building strong patient relationships and prioritizing preventive care. She values Exemplar Care’s model for allowing deeper engagement with patients and more thoughtful care planning. Outside of work, she enjoys time with family and community involvement.
ARNP
Jennifer Mockus, ARNP, is an experienced Nurse Practitioner with a background in critical care, cardiology, and geriatrics. Her diverse clinical experience supports a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to patient care.
Jennifer is passionate about helping patients focus on what matters most to their health and well-being. She values Exemplar Care’s model for its emphasis on personalized care and meaningful patient relationships. Outside of clinical practice, she enjoys spending time with her family and staying active.
ARNP
Ashlee Morman, ARNP, is a Nurse Practitioner with experience in both primary care and urgent care settings. Her background allows her to manage a wide range of acute and chronic conditions while maintaining a strong focus on preventive care.
Ashlee is known for her compassionate approach and dedication to building strong patient relationships. She believes healthcare should be personalized and accessible. She was drawn to Exemplar Care’s model because it supports meaningful connections and better patient outcomes. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family.
Arielle’s approach to care is centered on clarity, responsiveness, and trust. She is passionate about helping patients feel better quickly while ensuring they understand their care and next steps. She values creating a supportive environment where patients feel confident and well cared for, even in more urgent situations.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of South Dakota and went on to complete her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree at the University of Iowa.
Arielle was drawn to Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care because of its commitment to improving access and affordability in healthcare. Having seen gaps in traditional care settings, she is motivated to be part of a model that prioritizes transparency, timely care, and a better overall experience for members.
Outside of work, Arielle enjoys staying active through road biking and has participated in RAGBRAI since she was 18. She also enjoys traveling and has explored 19 countries and counting. At home, she spends time with her husband, their dog Credence, and family and friends.
PA-C
Tiffany Post, PA-C, is a board-certified Physician Assistant with experience in primary care and a strong focus on preventive medicine. She enjoys working with patients across the lifespan and helping them take a proactive approach to their health.
Tiffany believes in clear communication, patient education, and shared decision-making. She values Exemplar Care’s model for allowing more time with patients and the ability to provide thoughtful, individualized care. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and staying active.
PA-C
Gloria Quick, PA-C, is a Physician Assistant with experience in primary care and a strong commitment to patient advocacy. She enjoys working with patients across the lifespan and supporting them through both routine and complex health concerns.
Gloria believes healthcare should be accessible, respectful, and collaborative. She emphasizes education and communication to ensure patients feel confident in their care plans. Gloria was drawn to Exemplar Care because of its emphasis on individualized care and meaningful provider-patient relationships. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and pursuing personal interests.
MD
Nirmal Raj, MD, is a Family Medicine physician with experience in both primary care and office-based procedures. His clinical background includes caring for patients with a wide range of acute and chronic conditions.
Dr. Raj values a thoughtful, patient-centered approach and believes in taking the time to fully understand each patient’s needs. He was drawn to Exemplar Care’s model because it allows for more meaningful patient interactions and a focus on preventive care. Outside of practice, he enjoys spending time with family and staying engaged in his community.
ARNP
Tara Seifert, ARNP, is a Nurse Practitioner with experience in emergency and urgent care settings. Her background allows her to confidently address acute medical needs while maintaining a strong focus on primary care.
Tara values clear communication and patient education, ensuring individuals understand their care and next steps. She appreciates Exemplar Care’s model for its emphasis on continuity and patient relationships. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and staying active.
FNP-BC
Narges Shafiei, FNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in primary care, behavioral health, and healthcare leadership. Her diverse background supports a holistic, patient-centered approach to care.
Narges believes in addressing both physical and emotional aspects of health and prioritizes compassionate, individualized treatment. She was drawn to Exemplar Care because of its commitment to whole-person care and patient accessibility. Outside of clinical practice, she enjoys lifelong learning and community involvement.
NP-C
Billy’s path to healthcare began during his military career, where he served as an Electronics Technician and later as a Special Operations Communications Specialist. He advanced to the rank of Chief Petty Officer, developing strong leadership skills and the ability to perform in high-pressure environments. While working alongside a special operations medical team, he discovered a passion for patient care, which ultimately led him to pursue nursing through the Medical Enlisted Commissioning Program.
His clinical experience spans emergency medicine, urgent care, and primary care, allowing him to confidently manage a wide range of acute and ongoing health concerns.
Billy’s approach to care is grounded in trust, communication, and consistency. He believes effective care goes beyond diagnosis and treatment. It requires listening, building relationships, and creating an environment where patients feel comfortable and supported. He strives to be a steady, reliable presence for every patient he serves.
He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and completed his graduate training at Gonzaga University.
Billy was drawn to Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care because of its commitment to improving access and delivering more responsive, relationship-based care.
Outside of work, Billy lives with his family on an acreage in southwest Iowa near his hometown of Glenwood. He enjoys working outdoors, tackling projects around the property, and spending weekends at the motocross track supporting his son.
ARNP, FNP
Jacqueline Thompson, ARNP, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner with a strong foundation in evidence-based care and experience working with diverse patient populations. She is committed to delivering high-quality care that is both accessible and patient-centered.
Jacqueline values clear communication, problem-solving, and building trust with her patients. She was drawn to Exemplar Care because it allows her to focus on delivering thoughtful, individualized care. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and continuing her professional development.
DNP, FNP-C, ARNP
K. McCord Tierney, DNP, FNP-C, ARNP, is a Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in trauma and emergency nursing. His background supports a calm, confident approach to patient care across a variety of clinical situations.
McCord believes in compassionate, patient-focused care and values building trust through clear communication. He was drawn to Exemplar Care because it allows for proactive, relationship-based medicine. Outside of clinical practice, he enjoys time with family and activities that support balance and wellness.
DO
Jon Van Der Veer, DO is a board-certified Internal Medicine physician with extensive experience in primary care and healthcare leadership. His clinical background includes caring for adults across a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, with a strong emphasis on preventive care, care coordination, and long-term patient relationships. Dr. Van Der Veer is known for his thoughtful, evidence-based approach and his ability to translate complex medical information into clear, actionable guidance for patients.
Jon believes high-quality care is built on trust, access, and meaningful time between patients and providers. His clinical philosophy centers on proactive medicine, continuity of care, and addressing the whole person rather than isolated symptoms. He is deeply committed to models of care that remove barriers, improve communication, and allow clinicians to practice medicine the way it was intended with focus, compassion, and accountability.
PA-C
Elli Vore, PA-C, is a Physician Assistant at Exemplar Care with experience caring for patients across the lifespan, from pediatrics through adulthood. She joined Exemplar Care in 2020 and has practiced in a variety of primary care settings.
Elli emphasizes listening, education, and shared decision-making in her approach to care. She believes patients are best served when they feel informed, respected, and actively involved in their healthcare decisions. Elli was drawn to Exemplar Care’s direct primary care model because it allows more time with patients and removes traditional barriers to access. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and staying active.
MSN, FNP-C
Janden Weber, MSN, FNP-C, is a Family Nurse Practitioner at Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care with experience in both primary and urgent care. She cares for patients across the lifespan and brings a well-rounded clinical and leadership perspective to her work.
Janden’s approach to care is grounded in thoughtful, relationship-based medicine. She is a strong advocate for the direct primary care model and believes high-quality care requires time, attention, and clear communication. She emphasizes shared decision-making and evidence-based medicine, ensuring patients feel informed, supported, and actively involved in their care.
Her clinical focus includes both preventive care and the management of acute and chronic conditions, with an emphasis on providing personalized, comprehensive support that meets each patient’s individual needs.
Janden earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University and completed a Nurse Practitioner Fellowship at the University of Kansas. She also holds bachelor’s degrees from Fort Hays State University and Kansas State University.
She was drawn to Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care because of its commitment to accessibility, longer visits, and a more intentional, patient-centered approach to healthcare.
Outside of the clinic, Janden enjoys spending time with family and friends and staying engaged in the activities that help her recharge.
ARNP
Bethany Wheeler, ARNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in primary care and a passion for relationship-based medicine. She is committed to helping patients feel heard, supported, and confident in their healthcare decisions.
Bethany believes strong relationships and consistent care lead to better outcomes. She was drawn to Exemplar Care because of its emphasis on connection, accessibility, and long-term patient support. Outside of clinical practice, she enjoys spending time with her family and being involved in her community.
MD
Sarah Wiederholt, MD, is a Family Medicine physician with more than 17 years of clinical experience. Her background includes a strong focus on preventive care, chronic disease management, and long-term patient relationships.
Sarah believes in a proactive, relationship-based approach to medicine. She values listening to patients and working collaboratively to develop realistic, sustainable care plans. She was drawn to Exemplar Care’s model because it allows her to focus on quality care over volume. Outside of practice, she enjoys time with her family and staying active.