Epilogue of a Remarkable Career
Dr. Deanna St. Germain, a distinguished alumna of the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine, recently concluded a remarkable 40-year career in medicine, leaving an indelible mark on the field. Specializing in general practice and family medicine, Dr. St. Germain's extensive professional repertoire spanned various medical disciplines, including outpatient medicine, hospital medicine (encompassing surgery and obstetrics), emergency medicine, hospice, substance use disorder rehab, and child abuse medicine. Notably, her impactful contributions led to her appointment to the National Advisory Council for the National Health Service Corps in 1991, serving under US Secretary of Health and Human Services, Louis W. Sullivan, MD.
A trailblazer in healthcare advocacy, Dr. St. Germain co-founded the National Association of Clinicians for the Underserved. Her leadership roles in Southern Illinois, including her involvement in the Regional Child Death Review and chairing the Illinois State Child Death Review, solidified her commitment to advancing medical care.
In 2000, Dr. St. Germain played a pivotal role in establishing the Children’s Medical Resource Network (CMRN) at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. The CMRN aimed to address the unique needs of abused children in rural Southern Illinois, reflecting Dr. St. Germain's evolving dedication to the full-time care of children with concerns for child maltreatment. Her tireless efforts were acknowledged with an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science from her alma mater, St. Joseph's College of Maine, in May 2000.
Continuing her impactful journey, Dr. St. Germain assumed the role of Medical Director at KIDS Center in Bend, Oregon, in 2008. Accredited by the National Children’s Alliance, KIDS Center benefited immensely from her expertise. During her tenure, she also served as Deschutes County Medical Examiner from 2010 to 2014, enhancing medical services for law enforcement and families dealing with loss.