Susan M. Cooley, PA-C

A physician's assistant at ENT & Audiology, a clinic of Rutland Regional Medical Center, Rutland, VT

I entered the field of cardiology as a clinical exercise physiologist. While working with heart patients in cardiac rehabilitation, I fell in love with being a patient educator. I became a cardiology provider because I wanted to be a larger part of the patients care. Heart conditions can be overwhelming. It is my goal to work with patients and ensure they have their questions answered. The patients voice matters and is meant to be heard. I will be a patients advocate to the best of my ability. I strive to be the type of provider that I would want to treat my mother or father. The most rewarding part of my career is creating strong working relationships with people. I have the privilege to be by a patients side as they overcome mental and physical challenges. I learn about the person, understand their wants and needs, and together we create solutions.

After a childhood full of pediatric otolaryngology diagnoses, I’m deeply dedicated to the specialty. It’s an honor to care for patients in this delicate time in their lives. I know how important it is to feel heard, understood and educated on specific diagnoses and procedures. That is why I always listen to patients and their families first. Using that insight, I can better determine the right next steps clinically and share that information using clear language. Education is empowering. When a patient has a better grasp of the nature of their ailment or symptoms, it might not feel as scary or foreign to them. It can be a relief for both the patient and myself! That mutual understanding is a core part of my philosophy of care. Specialized medicine must have a holistic approach. It’s why I foster a caring, supportive role in my patients’ lives.