Get to know Dr. Dirk Nuenninghoff

A tan background with a Wisconsin crest, and white text on a red bar saying "New Faculty Q&A".

Dirk Nuenninghoff, MD, MS

Visiting Professor
Rheumatology

What is your primary professional focus as it relates to our mission areas (clinical, research and/or medical education)?
My primary focus is providing rheumatologic care to rural communities practicing at various outreach locations, the primary location being Portage, further in Mauston and Beaver Dam.

What drew you to UW–Madison and the Department of Medicine? 
The option of working in rural areas close to my home, familiarity with and respect for various rheumatologists at UW–Madison, working in a team with primary care, availability of excellent resources including lab, imaging and pathology and outstanding support from other specialists.

What are you most excited about during your first year with the department in this role?
I am filling a poorly met need delivering specialty care to rural communities, cutting down on the wait time for consultations and increasing continuity of care.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?  
Spending time with my family, our guardian dog Claire, our dairy goats, ducks, and chickens, tinkering around on our farm, long distance running, bicycling, canoeing, walking and reading.

Favorite piece of advice from a mentor or inspiring figure in your life?
It’s a privilege to care for patients. And don’t miss your lunch break.

Matt Mallum, MFA