Darcy Wikoff

Programs and Courses Taught

ELMSN-FNP

Professional Role and Advocacy for the APRN (N672)  
Health Protection, Promotion, and Screening for Individuals, Families, and Communities (N674)  
Care of Acute & Episodic Conditions (N675) 
Clinical Practicum/Internship (N678L, N679L N680L)

About Me

I am a proud alumna of the Samuel Merritt University ELMSN-FNP program, Class of 2016. I currently practice clinically as a Family Nurse Practitioner with a local FQHC, where I also serve as the Clinical Director of Graduate Education Services, and the Clinical Director of the Postgraduate APP Fellowship.

I joined Samuel Merritt University an assistant professor because I am deeply committed to developing and mentoring the next generation of Family Nurse Practitioners and ensuring highly skilled, compassionate providers enter the increasingly complex and demanding field of healthcare. The need for exceptional, prepared, and resilient healthcare professionals has never been greater.

Through my roles as a clinician, educator, and health care leader, I have found that teaching not only supports the growth of students but continually challenges and expands my own development as both a provider and a person. My ultimate goal for myself, my students, and my colleagues at both my clinical job and Samuel Merritt University is transformation: promoting transformational leadership, transforming healthcare and patient care through evidence-based practice, innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering passion for serving our communities.

Education

I hold a Bachelors of Science in Gerontology from California State University- Sacramento. I hold a Masters of Science Nursing from Samuel Merritt and Family Nurse Practitioner certification by the AANP. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice at Samuel Merritt University in December of 2025.

Teaching Interests

I am deeply passionate about practical, experiential learning, which is why I find teaching Clinical Practicum (Faculty Practice) so meaningful. Clinical education bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing learners to apply real-world concepts in complex and dynamic patient care environments. It is within the practicum setting that critical thinking is truly developed where students learn to synthesize pathophysiology, understand the underlying etiologies of disease, make evidence-based clinical decisions, and adapt thoughtfully to the realities and complexities of patient care.

Beyond clinical knowledge, practicum experiences challenge learners to engage in meaningful self-reflection: recognizing personal biases, identifying strengths and limitations, refining communication, and developing professional judgment. Faculty Practice (N678, N679, N680) is not simply a course requirement; it is a transformative process that shapes clinicians into thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and resilient healthcare providers.

Scholarly Interests

My current professional interests center on healthcare access and the complex factors that influence a patient’s ability to engage effectively with the healthcare system. Access extends far beyond physical availability or appointment wait times; it is profoundly shaped by social determinants of health, health literacy, socioeconomic barriers, cultural understanding, and a patient’s ability to recognize when and how to seek care. Many patients do not lack motivation to access healthcare—they lack the knowledge, resources, support, or systemic pathways necessary to navigate it successfully.

My work and ongoing scholarly interests focus on understanding how healthcare outcomes and access may improve if we intentionally address these barriers through two key strategies: first, by increasing patient health literacy through clear, accessible, and culturally responsive education; and second, by better educating future and new healthcare providers on the real-world impact of social determinants of health and the structural challenges patients face every day.

I am particularly interested in leveraging education, evidence-based practice, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence to create more effective patient education and strengthen provider understanding of patient-centered barriers to care. Ultimately, my goal is to help transform healthcare delivery into a system that is not only clinically effective, but also understandable, accessible, equitable, and responsive to the communities it serves.

Publications

https://www.healthcarebusinessreview.com/cxoinsight/darcy-a-wikoff-nwid-3152.html

Professional Affiliations & Memberships

American Association of Nurse Practitioners

Community Service

I currently serve as an advisory board member for my local charity, Shine with Purpose. Shine With Purpose serves as a conduit for the community, empowering families, children, and individuals to come together in service. Through community projects, nonprofit support, and acts of kindness, we raise awareness for mental health and foster meaningful connections. Our fundraising efforts fuel initiatives that support those in need and fund our annual scholarship, ensuring lasting impact. We believe that when you serve, you find your purpose and experience deep fulfillment.

Honors & Awards

UCDMC NP Resident Preceptor
CA Legislature Assembly Certificate of Recognition
CA BRN Nurse Practitioner Independent Practice Group Setting