A cross-country road trip, highlighted by a few days in South Dakota’s Black Hills, preceded Dr. Meehan’s September arrival in Vermont. The trip echoed a suggestion she offers those in her care—take time for rest, rejuvenation and fun to promote better health.

The Iowa native values rapport, active listening and “taking the time to hear what a patient has to say” beyond a list of obvious maladies.

“They’re coming to us with more than just physical symptoms, and it’s important to consider the context of a patient’s whole life and how that impacts health,” she says.  “Sometimes patients want to make changes, but don’t know how.”

Good nutrition, exercise and a strong support system are crucial holistic foundations, but sometimes patients and families encounter barriers to them.

“It’s important to know what’s getting in the way. It could be that a patient doesn’t agree or we aren’t on the same page,” she asks. “It’s important to know what’s important to them.”

Philosophy of Care:

I believe communication is the foundation of the patient/physician partnership. I enjoy working with patients to improve their health using a holistic approach. I look forward to developing a relationship with each of my patients and being a part of the community.