Irene C. Chamberlain, PA-C

I earned my Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Franklin Pierce University. I also earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a Minor in Women and Gender Studies at University of Vermont.

Four rotations in the ED, psych and peds affirmed for me that Central Vermont Medical Center and Vermont are just the places for me. After studies at Franklin Pierce and service work in Peru, I joyfully return to enjoy "the whole Vermont experience — hiking, fishing, being outdoors." With family at my childhood home in Ferrisburgh and sisters in Montpelier and Warren, I enjoy the wide variety of patients and conditions I'll treat close to home at ExpressCare.

I believe patient education is the key to effective health care as it allows the patient to have more control of their health and lifestyle choices. As a provider, I am a leader, and I feel it is important to 'practice what you preach' in the community and in the clinic. If I educate patients on finding more time to exercise, I too will wake up an extra hour early to get my exercise time in.

I also have an interest in women's health and mentoring adolescents. While completing my physician assistant training, I completed a community project aimed at strengthening a mentoring program at the high school I attended. The program focused on educating adolescents about the detrimental effects that media standards can have on young individuals.

I hope to one day resume mentoring and educating young women on the topic of body image in the media. As for returning to Vermont? I'm a lifer. I can't leave.