Scott M. Lannon, MSN, APRN

I believe in helping my patients be active participants in their own health care. This involves thoroughly and compassionately explaining their conditions to them, and then listening carefully to their concerns and needs. When a patient’s care involves family members or caregivers, I listen to their complaints and concerns as well. And I remind them to care for themselves so that they can better care for their loved one. I feel I’ve done my best work when my patients understand about their disease and feel empowered to take control of their own care.

I love working with older adults and their families. I enjoy helping my patients meet their goals so they can live as well as possible, no matter what medical problems they are dealing with. It can be easy to get lost in our country's complicated and imperfect medical system. Patients deserve to have doctors who really listen to their needs and help them coordinate their care between providers. I work hard to communicate with my patients, understand their wishes, and help them get the care they need. Before coming to Dartmouth-Hitchcock, I worked for the Indian Health Service in New Mexico for 4 ½ years. Working in a resource-limited setting and learning cultural humility helped me become a better doctor.

It’s important that my patients feel supported throughout their diagnosis and treatment. Receiving stressful news isn’t easy, so I want them to find comfort in my insight and guidance toward the right treatment path. Clear communication is a critical part of my process. In my care, both patients and loved ones are well informed. By answering their questions thoroughly in uncomplicated terms, I ensure everyone understands the diagnosis. I am just a phone call away. I follow up on results in a timely fashion. Patients are always able to contact me after an appointment with their questions or concerns. My goal is to ease the angst and anxiety that often comes with a new diagnosis. I really enjoy my work and finding ways to connect with, comfort and guide people of varying backgrounds makes it all the more fulfilling.