CommunityHealth shines the Volunteer Spotlight on Eileen Murphy, MD during July.
Since joining the clinic in 2020, Dr. Eileen Murphy has become a key member of our gynecology team. As part of a small but mighty group of providers, she brings exceptional clinical expertise, compassion, and positivity to her work. She is an outstanding physician and educator who is respected by both her patients and fellow volunteer providers. In fact, providers throughout the clinic often seek out Dr. Murphy’s perspective because of her trusted clinical judgment.
What sets Dr. Murphy apart is the way she connects with her patients. She takes the time to listen and ensure each person feels seen, supported, and confident in their care plan. Her calm demeanor helps put people at ease, especially when discussing sensitive health concerns. Patients frequently share glowing feedback about their experiences with Dr. Murphy, and her warm presence and genuine dedication to others make a lasting impact on everyone she works with.
For her dedicated volunteer service, Dr. Eileen Murphy was awarded 2025 Volunteer Specialist of the Year at the 2025 Volunteer of the Year Awards.
CommunityHealth sat down with Dr. Murphy to learn more about what quality health care for all means to her…
Tell us more about yourself and your background.
I am an identical twin, one of 10 children born to my mother over 11 years. We learned to care for each other and be self-sufficient. I have 3 sisters who are also physicians. The other is an RN.
What is your favorite memory from your time with CommunityHealth?
I fondly remember all the patients who wished to give me a hug after an office visit.
Why and how did you begin volunteering at CommunityHealth?
I first started around 2011 but became more regular in 2020.
Do you remember your first day? What surprised you
I remember how wonderful the support staff are and how unflagging they are to the CommunityHealth mission.
What has kept you volunteering all this time?
It is simply a good thing to do, anyway you slice it. The need is bottomless. I provide some raindrops.
What is something you’ve learned from volunteering at CommunityHealth?
Assume nothing. Meet everyone where they are. You need to ask “where they are.”
What has been your biggest takeaway from your time with CommunityHealth, and how does it impact your life or career goals?
Just give however you can give.
How has working with CommunityHealth influenced your perception of healthcare?
America needs national health care STAT.
Why is volunteering important to you?
It gives more to me than what I give. I am wired to help others and be part of communities.
What advice would you give to a new volunteer at CommunityHealth?
You are truly appreciated by the patients. They need you.
Outside of volunteering with CommunityHealth, how do you like to spend your free time?
Walking, reading, playing pickleball, teaching medical students Problem Based Learning & Clinical Examination Skills, and traveling.
Do you have any special talents or skills you would like to share?
I am a docent at the Field Museum doing free Dinosaur and Field Favorites guest tours. I am currently studying to guide a Marvelous Mammals Tour.
What is your favorite book or movie?
My favorite book is The Red Tent by Anita Diamond, and my favorite movie is Dan in Real Life.
What is the best piece of personal or professional advice you have received?
Keep going. Perfect does not exist. Kindness is everything.
