Her Story
About Melanie
Melanie J. Kunz is a respected healthcare leader, nurse practitioner, and founder of MDTriage, LLC, an innovative after-hours medical triage service she established in 1998 to provide patients with timely access to healthcare guidance when traditional offices are closed. Her nursing journey began in 1969 when she graduated as a registered nurse from Nevada Southern University, now known as University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Driven by a lifelong passion for patient care and healthcare advancement, Melanie dedicated decades to clinical excellence before expanding her expertise as a perinatal and high-risk obstetrics nurse practitioner in 2000.
Throughout her distinguished career, Melanie has combined her clinical knowledge with entrepreneurial leadership to transform the way patients and providers access after-hours medical support. She furthered her education by earning a bachelor’s degree in healthcare from University of St. Francis and completing her nurse practitioner certification at San Jose State University. Under her leadership as CEO and founder of MD Triage, the company grew through trusted relationships and word of mouth, becoming a valuable resource for medical practices by managing approximately 550 hours of patient calls each month, including support for obstetrics, gynecology, perinatal care, and primary care services.
Beyond her entrepreneurial achievements, Melanie remains deeply committed to advancing healthcare through education, mentorship, and innovation. As a member of the Maricopa County Medical Society in Phoenix, Arizona, she continues to contribute to the healthcare community while sharing her expertise and advocating for improved patient access. Her pioneering work has earned recognition through media features, including an appearance on a local Phoenix television station, and her selection as one of the Influential Women of 2026. Melanie’s enduring dedication to compassionate care, leadership, and healthcare innovation has established her as a trailblazer in the medical triage field.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Melanie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a lifelong commitment to healthcare, continuous learning, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others. Throughout my more than five decades in nursing and healthcare leadership, I have remained driven by a passion for innovation, compassion, and service. Founding MD Triage in 1998 allowed me to combine my clinical experience with my vision for improving access to care, supporting physicians, and helping patients receive timely medical guidance while reducing unnecessary emergency room visits. I believe my success has also come from my dedication to mentoring others, sharing knowledge, and encouraging the next generation of nurses and healthcare leaders to think creatively and embrace new opportunities. By staying committed to excellence, empowering others, and remaining focused on improving the healthcare experience, I have been able to build a meaningful legacy of service and innovation.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.