Physician Assistant Leslie Osterman has joined Gifford’s primary care team and is now seeing patients in the Randolph clinic.
She previously worked for 10 years as respiratory therapist at Fletcher Allen, where she learned about patient care offered by physician assistants (PA). PA’s are specially trained to examine, diagnose, and treat patients under the supervision of a medical doctor (MD).
“I was drawn to the PA’s more holistic approach to patient care, their focus on preventive medicine, and the way they act as a resource for their patients,” she said. “I also liked the PA’s team approach in sharing knowledge and decision making.”
Osterman decided to pursue a career in primary care and returned to school, getting her BA at Johnson State and taking additional classes at CCV before entering Franklin Pierce University. She graduated last spring with masters of Physician Assistant Studies.
As part of her training she completed rotations in area facilities including smaller hospitals in New London, Plainfield, St Albans, and at UVM and DHMC. She did three rotations at Gifford (in pediatric and adolescent care, surgery, and obstetrics and gynecology), where she was especially impressed by the staff’s friendliness and commitment.
“Gifford takes a great approach to patient care and really seems to care about the community, which is important to me,” she said. “Since I am especially interested in practicing primary care in a rural setting, this is a good fit for me.”
Establishing an ongoing relationship with a primary care provider is one of the best things people can do to stay healthy. Someone who knows your health history and habits can recognize changes in your health and more accurately diagnose and treat serious conditions. Primary care providers can also help find a specialist and coordinate care should you become ill or seriously injured. To schedule an appointment call 802-728-2777.
