Sarah Marie Skelly, PAC - Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center

I help my patients improve their quality of life. Whether by eliminating seizures or at the very least, making my patients feel comfortable with a condition theyve had for years, I do my best to ensure they achieve their health goals in matters big and small. An important part of my process is building rapport. I encourage patients to ask questions about anything I say or do during the visit. I listen to their stories with compassion before asking my own questions. Often, when family members are involved, I ask them for feedback and input into a patients well-being. Were a team. I explain my thought process for diagnostic and treatment approaches. Those steps allow me to break down difficult-to-grasp medical information. That way, I can collaborate with my patients and their loved ones to tailor a neurological treatment plan that fits their unique needs and puts what they want at its center. Those efforts support my goal of providing optimal care. Im motivated to do my best and stay up-to-date on the latest developments in neurology. Because hearing back from happy patients after making a medication change or performing a procedure is incredibly rewarding.

Being physically active is an essential part of maintaining our health and independence. I chose to work in orthopedics so that I can help others remain active, whether that means walking to the mailbox, lifting a gallon of milk, or competing in an ultra-marathon. My patients appreciate the time I spend with them to understand their questions and concerns. I talk with my patients with the same respect and care as I would with my family or friends. I help them understand the issue they are seeking help for and the ways that we can help them. I like to create treatment plans with my patients and ensure they are actively involved in the decision-making process. Patients receive the best possible care when we consider their goals and priorities while supplying them with tools and support for success. I act as a resource for my patients and empower them to make the decisions they feel are best for them.