Dr. Elaine Saunders, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, NE-BC, is a family nurse practitioner and healthcare leader who earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Chamberlain University. Her career included advanced practice and leadership roles with the Florida Department of Health, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, the Connecticut Department of Social Services, the University of Maryland Medical Center and other major healthcare organizations. Dr. Saunders provided care for adults and older adults with chronic and complex health conditions, including kidney disease, transplant-related care and communicable diseases. She also led clinical teams, quality improvement initiatives, staff development programs and community health efforts. Her philosophy of care centers on embracing a culture of caring for people regardless of age or circumstance, and she entered healthcare because of her passion for helping others and serving her community. Dr. Saunders is especially passionate about heart health, brain health and kidney disease. In 2025, she was recognized as one of Florida's Influential Women. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, going to the movies and volunteering.