My Background

Mar 12, 2024 | About Cheri | 4 comments

Cheri Zao, MD

Cheri Zao, MD

Candidate for Idaho Senate District 5

As a dedicated advocate for the people of Idaho, Dr. Cheri Zao brings her expertise and passion to the forefront. With a deep understanding of Idaho values, she is committed to restoring the core principles that make our state great. Through her tireless efforts, Cheri is championing the causes that matter most to our communities – from education to healthcare, and everything in between. Join us in supporting Dr. Cheri Zao as she strives to make a positive impact on Idaho and pave the way for a brighter future. Together, we can restore Idaho values!

My Professional Career

During my decades of living in North Idaho I have had the opportunity to practice family medicine, and serve as a professor of Human Anatomy and Physiology at North Idaho College.

My life in medicine

My education and career as a Family Medicine physician focused on taking care of families and people of all ages and stages in life. Patient history and resource availability directly impacted outcomes. I understand the need to listen and gather as much information as possible to make good decisions. My medical training provides the perfect background for my segue into politics because a strong foundation of working with patients for a healthy outcome is the same as working with constituents toward a healthy community outcome. 

My life in education

A good education with lots of good books and researching skills are essential for to those choosing to advance their lives with a college education. Knowledge is why patients come to a doctor. Sharing that knowledge in a way that is understandable makes a difference. These same qualities applied to a career in education. Those who have had good student experiences in education have worked with instructors who are good listeners. Good listeners make a difference in a student’s success. I loved lecturing. That was my time to share my knowledge with others. However, after lectures or labs, I found that students really shine when they ask questions. Human interactions are so important. Students, like patients, want to be strong and self-reliant. Instead of medical problems they have personal goals. By listening and hearing with empathy one can be a guide and help them acquire the skills to reach their goals.

My life AS YOUR LEGISLATOR

I want to listen to you, my constituent. I want to hear your concerns. I want to use my knowledge and skills to make a real difference for the great people of North Idaho.