Board certified emergency medicine physician Zachary Phelps, MD, joined our medical staff in 2009. He practices exclusively in the Emergency Department, where he treats patients for any unforeseen medical condition such as trauma, chest pain, abdominal pain, OB/GYN emergency, stroke, infection, poisoning or substance abuse. He also provides continuity of care by coordinating post-emergency treatment with other physicians and health care practitioners. He serves on our Credentials Committee, which evaluates the qualifications of physicians who practice at the hospital. Dr. Phelps practiced emergency medicine on the East Coast before moving to Whidbey.
Patient Care Philosophy
- Discuss my thought process with patients to enhance their understanding of the reasoning behind tests and treatments I recommend.
- Involve patients in weighing a treatment’s potential benefits versus potential side effects.
- Diagnose whenever possible within the constraints of the Emergency Department while also treating symptoms even if a diagnosis is not achieved.
Scope of Care
- Initial evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of patients of any age who require expeditious medical, surgical or psychiatric care for unforeseen illness or injury
- Assessment, stabilization and coordination of care for patients who require transport to another hospital for more specialized care
- Collaboration with primary care physicians, hospitalists and specialists to manage the patients who come to the Emergency Department to assure continuity of care
Education
- Medical School: Thomas Jefferson University, 1998
Internship & Residency
- Morristown Memorial Hospital
Certification
- Board Certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine