Patricia Chambers, MD, named chief medical officer of Niswonger Children’s Hospital
Patricia Chambers, MD, an established physician leader with significant expertise in children’s care, has been named chief medical officer of Niswonger Children’s Hospital.
In her new role, Dr. Chambers will be responsible for oversight and governance of all medical services at Niswonger Children’s Hospital, including its outpatient and rehabilitation services, pediatric trauma program and associated pediatric emergency room, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and inpatient services. In addition, she will be an integral part of Ballad Health’s pediatric service line, working to build a system of care for children throughout the 29-county service area of Niswonger Children’s Hospital.
“My goal in this job is to continue elevating the level of care provided to the children in our community,” said Dr. Chambers, who earned her medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, after completing her bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Milligan College.
“I’m eager to lead the ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of care, patient safety and process development at Niswonger Children’s Hospital. I have a lot of passion for patient experience and am excited to focus on the ultimate goal – better outcomes and brighter futures for the children of the Appalachian Highlands.”
Prior to joining Niswonger Children’s Hospital, Dr. Chambers served as the associate medical director of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center’s Division of Emergency Medicine for its Liberty Campus. There, she also held numerous academic appointments, including assistant professor of pediatrics for Cincinnati Children’s. Additionally, she has completed research projects and numerous presentations on the importance of communication with patients, families and team members to foster a stronger sense of involvement and ownership of the care process.
“We are delighted a physician of Dr. Chambers’ caliber and with her experience will be joining our team,” said Lisa Carter, chief executive officer of Niswonger Children’s Hospital and Ballad Health’s vice president of pediatric services. “She has demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence in care, as well as a keenness and true desire to improve lives by bolstering medical services.
“I’m very excited to work with her as we take the next steps to grow our services, refine our care and ultimately enhance children’s health in our region.”
Board-certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, Dr. Chambers completed her pediatric internship and residency at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh before moving to Cincinnati for a fellowship in pediatric emergency medicine at Cincinnati Children’s. She pursued the Niswonger Children’s Hospital opportunity and moved with her family to Johnson City in order to be closer to extended family members who live in and around the Appalachian Highlands, as well as to make a difference in the lives of local children.
“Naturally, it was challenging to relocate our family during a pandemic, but everyone has been so gracious and welcoming,” Dr. Chambers said. “I wholeheartedly believe this is going to be a great move – a chance to lead this team that is dedicated to excellence and to live out my faith through service to the children of this community”
For information about Niswonger Children’s Hospital and its leadership, please visit our Niswonger Children’s Hospital page.