Office for Children with Special Healthcare Needs

Purcell is board certified in pediatrics. She serves as an associate professor at the University of Louisville School of Medicine where she participates in teaching residents and medical students. In her most recent professional role she provided general pediatric care in private practice at East Louisville Pediatrics, delivering care to children and families in Louisville for more than 20 years.

“I am very excited to have this opportunity to continue my passionate work of ensuring the growth and development of children and families,” said Purcell. “It is truly an honor to work alongside the dedicated OCSHCN staff. Together we can deliver optimum care to Kentucky’s children with special health care needs.”

Purcell received her bachelor of arts from Otterbein University and her doctorate of medicine from Medical College of Ohio. She completed her residency in pediatrics at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, where she was voted Most Outstanding Resident by the faculty. In addition, Purcell earned her master of business administration from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business.

Providing general pediatric care in the private sector has given her a broad perspective of individual health care at all levels and the importance of early intervention.

“The OCSHCN works diligently to enhance the quality of life for Kentucky’s children with special health care needs through quality service, leadership, advocacy, education and collaboration,” said OCSHCN Executive Director Shellie A. May. “We work closely with our community partners to improve access to care for Kentucky’s most vulnerable and we look forward to the expertise, dedication and passion that Dr. Purcell will bring to our team.”

Purcell is the former president of the Kentucky chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and has also completed terms as both secretary/treasurer and vice president. During her term as president, the chapter received two AAP Chapter Awards of Excellence. She continues to lead and develop chapter initiatives including curbing e-cigarette use. She has served on a variety of committee assignments and administrative services and championed work on substance abuse prevention, collaborating with the Kentucky Department for Public Health’s Division of Development and Behavioral Disabilities.

Dr. Purcell is married and has two children. She enjoys running, baking, and reading.