Bayhealth’s Michelle Devern Appointed to State Primary Care Reform Collaborative

Bayhealth Medical Group’s own Michelle Devern, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, has been appointed to the Delaware Primary Care Reform Collaborative – a statewide initiative focused on improving access to and delivery of primary care. The selection is a proud moment not only for Devern, but for Bayhealth as a whole.

Devern first learned about the appointment from the Governor’s Office, but the news came with a surprising twist.

“My son is a delegate for Boys State, and during one of their sessions, he heard my name mentioned,” she said. “He thought I was showing up to embarrass him – turns out, they were announcing my appointment!”

For Devern, the opportunity to serve on this committee is deeply personal. “We see the challenges of primary care every day – long wait times, growing demand and limited resources,” she said. “This appointment gives me the chance to bring the clinician’s voice to the table and help drive solutions from the front lines.”

Seth Nyman, MHS, PA-C, MBA, is director of Advanced Practice Clinicians for Bayhealth Medical Group. He called Devern’s appointment a reflection of her character, clinical excellence and leadership within Bayhealth.

“She’s a rockstar in primary care,” said Nyman. “Her name consistently comes up when people talk about high-quality, compassionate care. This role is a testament to how much she gives to her patients and our team.”

Nyman also emphasized how Devern’s participation in the Collaborative stands to benefit Bayhealth more broadly. “Having someone directly involved at the state level means we’ll have early insights into policy changes and emerging challenges,” he said. “That’s a huge advantage for us as an organization.”

Devern brings nearly two decades of experience with Bayhealth and recently completed the Clinical Leadership Development Program at Bayhealth. She views her new role as an opportunity to represent both the health system and the broader community.

“Bayhealth has always been invested in improving access to care,” she said. “I’m proud to be part of that story and to carry our values forward in this work.”

Nyman added that her appointment sets an inspiring example for other advanced practice clinicians.

“This shows what’s possible when you stay committed to excellence,” he said. “Michelle’s achievement should be a motivator for all of us – that there are opportunities to lead, represent and shape healthcare at every level.”

Devern summed it up with her trademark humility: “I’m here to advocate – for our patients and for our team members. When people come to us, they’re often in a vulnerable place. I want to help ensure they receive the best care and resources possible.”

Bayhealth is proud to support leaders like Michelle Devern who are shaping the future of healthcare in Delaware. Let’s celebrate her achievement and continue working together to elevate primary care in our communities. If you have ideas, challenges or successes to share from the front lines of care, speak up – your voice matters. Together, we can drive meaningful change.