The Chase Wellness & Research Center, Inc.
Fore-runners in Bariatric Medicine and Research

Our Staff

The Chase Wellness Center was founded by Lisa Harris, MD, CCRI. A graduate of Hahnemann University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA, Dr. Harris completed her residency at Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New York. Before relocating to Virginia Beach in 1994, she practiced bariatric medicine in New York.

Dr. Harris is among four medical doctors in Virginia who are certified by the American Society of Bariatric Physicians.

Since 1998, Dr. Harris has been the principle investigator for over 40 clinical research trials in the areas of obesity and its associated medical problems. She earned certification in clinical research from the Association of Clinical Research Professionals in 2002.

Judy Mitnick, MS, RD has been a registered dietitian since 1986. She received her master's degree in nutrition from Massachusetts General Hospital. Judy provides nutrition education for participants in the OPTIFAST® Weight Management Program at The Chase Wellness & Research Center. She works with private patients and patients in clinical research studies.

Prior to joining The Chase Wellness Center, Judy worked as a public health nutritionist in Virginia Beach and as a diabetes educator with the Diabetes Institutes of Eastern Virginia Medical School. She has also been a nutrition consultant for the Sentara Health System, Virginia Beach Public Schools and the Virginia Beach Department of Public Health.

Our supportive and caring staff of nurses and medical assistants is trained in weight management and nutrition.