Christy Merrick is a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) who joined FLDSCC in 2013 as a board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Dr. Merrick attended Polk State College for her Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees in Nursing. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of South Florida and her Master of Science degree in Nursing and Post-master’s Certificate from the Florida Southern College. In 2024, she completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Florida Southern College in Lakeland. 

Dr. Merrick began her nursing career at Winter Haven Hospital. She then worked at the Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center as the administrative nursing supervisor for seven years. Before joining FLDSCC, Dr. Merrick worked at Lakeland Regional Medical Center as a hospitalist APRN. She graduated top of her class with high honors and is currently a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Dr. Merrick has been internationally published in Pflege Zeitschrift, the official journal of the Federal Association of Teaching Health and Social Professions in Germany. She presently precepts NP and MD students, and mentors graduate nursing students. 

At FLDSCC, Dr. Merrick focuses on diagnosing and treating patients of all ages with dermatological complaints such as precancerous and cancerous lesions, acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, rashes, and many other skin disorders. 

Dr. Merrick, a Polk County native born and raised in Winter Haven, adores spending time with her husband, children, grandchildren, and three Dachshunds. Outside of her practice, she sings professionally, loves to spend time outdoors, and enjoys traveling.