Education and Training
Heidi earned her Master of Science in Family Practice Nurse Practitioner studies from SUNY College at Brockport. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Rochester and an Associate of Science in Nursing from Monroe Community College, both located in Rochester, New York.

Philosophy
I believe in providing compassionate, patient-centered care that emphasizes holistic wellness and evidence-based practice. My philosophy is grounded in principles of integrity, accountability, and lifelong learning. I am committed to empowering patients through education and collaborative decision-making, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their care.

Personal Interests
Family always comes first in my life, and I cherish the time I spend with my friends. I’m passionate about the outdoors, whether it’s camping, kayaking, or hiking. I find peace and joy in nature. I’m also an avid gardener growing flowers and vegetables. I love baking, often trying new recipes, and sharing treats with loved ones.

Certified Specialties

Family Nurse Practitioner - American Academy of Nurse Practitioners

Credentials

Education

MS | The College At Brockport, Suny. 2022

Ratings & Comments

At University of Rochester Medicine, we believe that patients should be empowered to make the right decisions regarding their personal healthcare. To do so, transparency is critical. URochester Medicine partners with Press Ganey, to survey our patients about all aspects of their care experience. We are now putting this pertinent information at your fingertips by displaying star ratings for our providers along with anonymous patient comments on our website. This will help you make better-informed choices about how and with whom you seek care. Click here to learn more about the surveys used to generate this vital information. Learn more about our survey process.

Ratings

Care provider's discussion of any proposed treatment (options, risks, benefits, etc.)

4.9

Likelihood of recommending this care provider to others

4.9

Explanations the care provider gave you about your problem or condition

4.9

Care provider's efforts to include you in decisions about your care

4.9

Concern the care provider showed for your questions or worries

4.9

Patient Comments

5.0

First visit with Heidi. Happy to receive care from her at anytime.

Feb 16, 2026

5.0

The np was very helpful

Feb 14, 2026

5.0

Great care and knowledge

Feb 13, 2026

5.0

Heidi DeFord PA was fantastic and so thorough! She addressed the urgent issues at hand immediately following up with a phone call and a subsequent office visit to address additional issues. I could not be more please with a new practice!

Feb 11, 2026

5.0

This was the first time I had ever seen Heidi and she had taken the time to review my chart before she came in to see me and I very much appreciated that

Feb 06, 2026

5.0

We love this office, Dr. Lighthouse is excellent as well as Heidi DeFord, NP. Yes, we have recommended them!

Jan 30, 2026

5.0

Absolutely would recommend Heidi.

Jan 27, 2026

5.0

Heidi is great and very personable. Makes you feel comfortable.

Jan 18, 2026

5.0

Heidi DeFord is a wonderful provider. Her thoroughness and attentiveness are very much appreciated. She is able to answer any question I have and if she can't, she will research the answer. I would highly recommend her to my family and friends.

Jan 08, 2026

5.0

I am.pleased with my doctors and staff.

Jan 04, 2026

5.0

Was very good send me right to [...] ER [...]

Dec 26, 2025

5.0

Heidi is very thorough and compassionate.

Dec 13, 2025

1.8

My concerns were diminished and ridiculed.

Dec 04, 2025

5.0

The NP immediately set a tone which was a perfect mixture of complete competency, professionalism, and a sincere concern and caring regarding the reason for my visit, and, not just another patient, but, me, personally. That means so much to me! ,

Nov 29, 2025

5.0

I'm so pleased to have Heidi as my NP. She is quick, caring and listens to me. I have already recommended her to others.

Nov 23, 2025

5.0

Great nurse

Nov 15, 2025

5.0

I followed the three-day diet prescribed by the NP. Less than 24 hours into it, the pain was almost entirely gone!

Nov 13, 2025

5.0

I value the providers and always appreciate their expertise in tandem with partnership with me, as the patient.

Nov 04, 2025

5.0

NP Heidi Deford was wonderful. I've made a point to schedule with her, as of late, as she is patient and conveys the persistence to help me resolve outstanding issues

Oct 26, 2025

5.0

It was the first time I Have seen Heidi PA. She is extremely thorough, caring, and knowledgeable. I felt very confident that she understood. About my health She went through my chart with me And inquired several times. She physically examined me and explained the reasoning for different checks I was very comfortable and she told me do not hesitate to come back or call if I had any questions or wasn't feeling better soon She explained and made sure I knew about the new medication. She prescribed and went to contact their office if I wasn't feeling better. She is a wonderful asset to the physicians group in Spencerport

Oct 26, 2025

5.0

Heidi is excellent. She is always attentive and listens to what I have to say. I will miss her as I am moving back to North Carolina.

Oct 21, 2025

5.0

Always pleasant techs and doctors

Oct 20, 2025

5.0

Heidi is super nice, knowledgeable and appears to truly listen to my concerns, without judgement. She is wonderful.

Oct 09, 2025

5.0

She took the Time and read through all my charts explaining everything

Sep 22, 2025

5.0

Great visit. Very informative and personable. Quality care and kindness

Aug 11, 2025

2.8

First time I saw this person, was not to impressed.

Jul 18, 2025

5.0

No negative comments or complaints 5 star

Jul 17, 2025

5.0

Everyone was helpful and kind.

Jul 02, 2025

5.0

PA was very informative and I was very happy with her and the information I was given.

Jun 04, 2025

5.0

NP was filling in Heidi DeFord very thorough and easy to talk with

Jun 04, 2025