My personal philosophy in nursing and working in healthcare aligns with a profound quote from the book of Galatians, chapter 6 and verse 9, which says, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (KJV, 1911).  This embodies the accountability, professionalism, compassion, and perseverance that I have personified in my nursing career. My Christian faith has led me in the paths of what is right and good in this world, giving me the vocation of being a healthcare provider to prove that faith through actions of kindness and care towards others.

I have dedicated my career in healthcare to the goal of improving health literacy for patients and their caregivers. I truly believe that a better understanding of health care issues, disease prevention and disease care by patients and their caregivers has a direct impact on their quality of life. I work hard to actively listen to the concerns, obstacles, and barriers my patients present and collaborate with them to prepare a plan of care.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and pets, am very active in supporting my church, and love to cook.

I enjoy taking care of my patients and including their families and the entire treatment team in the process. 

Establishing a good patient-physician relationship is crucial to help provide the best care. I believe in allowing ample time in a visit to listen to my patients' needs and thoroughly explain their diagnosis and treatment plan. Most podiatric issues can be treated with aggressive conservative therapy, although when surgical intervention is necessary, I will communicate that to the patient in a direct and concise manner. 

I believe completely in treating each of my patients as an individual. I believe that really listening can be just as important as any physical exam or test. Outside of my work in medicine I am a musician and I enjoy reading and spending time with my dog.

Dr. Christopher Cannell is a doctoral-trained Physician Associate with over 22 years of multidisciplinary clinical experience in Emergency Medicine (CAQ-EM), Orthopedics, Critical Care, and Internal Medicine. He is nationally recognized for his leadership and expertise in healthcare quality, patient safety, and risk mitigation.  He is a frequent invited speaker on Provider Clinical Risk Management and a blogger for medical liability companies on these critical topics.

Dr. Cannell is a successful entrepreneur leading a six-figure consulting firm where he also trains and encourages other healthcare provider entrepreneurs to explore their passions, niches, and grow their own business.

Dr. Cannell has held key leadership positions including current President of PAs in Legal Medicine, Board of Directors for the Academy of Doctoral PAs and previously with Massachusetts Association of PAs, and Board Advisor for the SCUHS Doctor of Medical Science program. He has led clinical teams as an APC Director, Department Lead, healthcare system, program manager and thought leader and Chair of APC career letter committee, driving innovation in quality improvement, documentation, onboarding, population management, operations, and value-based care initiatives across health systems.  Created POCUS acute care program for PAs and NPs at the largest community hospital in Massachusetts in alignment with the department ultrasound director. 

Dr. Cannell is an experienced medical professional legal consultant (MPLC) and expert witness, certified through Auburn University and The Center for Legal Studies. He has over 8 years of experience providing expert witness and consulting services focused on clinical risk assessment, discovery, and standard of care.  His collaborative consulting work spans clinicians, legal teams, malpractice insurance consultants, executives, AI technology, and life sciences organizations.

A dedicated educator and mentor, Dr. Cannell serves as Assistant Professor Doctor of Medical Science Program at The University of Lynchburg, current adjunct faculty for the Doctor of Medical Science Program at Marshall B. Ketchum University and also previously with South College (Healthcare Law & Policy), and currently for Northeastern University School of Medical Sciences PA Program, and the Tufts School of Medicine PA Program. He is a subject matter expert in generative AI development, educational consulting for early career and transitional career NPs and PA’s, and interprofessional collaboration to advance the Quadruple Aim.

Dr. Cannell completed leadership training in Just Culture, High Reliability, as well as patient safety through the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI). He earned his DMSc from the University of Lynchburg, MPAS from MCPHS–Boston, and BA in Pre-Medical Studies and Psychology from Muhlenberg College. He has done additional leadership training from AAPA from The Center for Healthcare Leadership and Management.

I have been a proud member of the Hospitalist group at South Shore Hospital since its inception in 2000. I believe that patients can benefit from a dedicated group of hospital physicians who work in conjunction with the primary care physicians and specialists in the community.  

Outside of work, I enjoy most sports and outdoor life with my family on a small farm in Southern New Hampshire.

Being a physician is an honor and a privilege I have enjoyed since graduating from The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in 1979.  As my patients know I am interested in your life, your passions and the Orthopaedic issues that frustrate you and how I might be of assistance to you.  Surgery is not always a solution.

I take care of newborn infants and their great grandmothers.  In an era of sub-specialization, I am the "silver haired" General Orthopaedist but have maintained my surgical skills and remain confident in my abilities.  I have been fortunate to have treated multiple generations of my friends and neighbors here on the South Shore and work in a hospital committed to clinical excellence and compassionate care.