Deanna Befus

Deanna Befus, PhD, is an Assistant Professor at the Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing (Western University), currently on an extended leave of absence. Her educational background includes a PhD from Duke University and a dual BSN/BA from the University of Colorado. Her research focuses on health equity, chronic disease management, and evidence-based interventions, particularly in marginalized populations. Key areas include migraine management in vulnerable women, menopause symptom relief via nonpharmacological methods (e.g., yoga, acupuncture), and systems thinking approaches to self-management. She supervises MScN and PhD students in the School of Nursing, emphasizing interdisciplinary and community-engaged research.

Research interests prominently feature intersectional health disparities, complementary therapies, and the application of systems thinking to complex health challenges. Her work bridges clinical practice with policy advocacy, aiming to improve access to equitable care. Publications span migraine epidemiology, ADHD interventions, and the physiological impacts of mindfulness practices. While no awards are listed, her contributions to nursing research address critical gaps in understanding and treating chronic conditions through holistic approaches.

Advising and grants focus on training the next generation of nurse researchers in methodological rigor and community collaboration. Her research teams often partner with healthcare providers to translate findings into actionable practices. Though no specific labs or teams are named, her work aligns with Western University’s strategic priorities in advancing health equity and leadership in healthcare innovation.