Christopher (Chris) Bates-Withers completed his medical training as a physician associate at Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona.  He also holds masters degrees in biology from Harvard University and in clinical toxicology from University of Florida College of Pharmacy.  He has practiced in cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery and critical care prior to his position at Islesboro Health Center.

Chris began his clinical career as a paramedic, working in Philadelphia and Boston while completing his medical course work.  After PA school in Arizona, he returned to New England where he worked in advanced heart failure management with Boston Medical Center and in cardiothoracic surgery at Maine Medical Center.  He holds Certificates of Added Qualification from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants in Hospital Internal Medicine and in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery.

Chris has served in state-level physician associate leadership since 2020, including directing the 2021 and 2022 Maine Academy of Physician Associates (MEAPA) Continuing Medical Education Conferences, and was recognized by MEAPA as the 2021 Outstanding Healthcare Professional of the Year.  He is the 2025-2026 MEAPA vice-president.

One of Chris's major professional interests is clinical education.  Before coming to Islesboro full-time, he served as faculty at the University of New England PA program for 3 years, including as assistant program director in the final year.  He was recognized in 2025 with the Westbrook College of Health Professions Distinguished Teaching Award for Graduate Teaching Excellence.  He is an instructor in Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and currently provides training and certification in these disciplines for Islesboro Health Center staff.

Chris's current clinical interests include improving cardiovascular health in Islesboro, and improving medical emergency preparedness for the health center.  He will be working with Beth O'Mara in a shared clinic director role.

Outside of his clinical work, Chris is a 5-time marathoner and enjoys traveling, playing piano, renovating his home outside of Portland, and sailing his 38' C&C sailboat.