Q&A: Choosing an Osteopathic Doctor for Primary Care

When I began medical school at the University of New England in Biddeford, Maine, I immediately felt connected to the ideology and mission of osteopathic medicine. It’s a hands-on, patient-centered approach to care. I enjoy the role of promoting, fostering and supporting health and wellness.

Life is a journey. In my opinion, every patient has a different history, beliefs and goals. This directly contributes to the trajectory of their life and health. I strive to take that into account, combine it with modern medicine and help my patients map a sustainable path to overall well-being. I want to guide my patients to create a journey that can be as healthy and fulfilling as possible.

I did my clinical rotations in Bangor. My wife, Veronica, and I instantly fell in love with the area. It offers a wonderful melting pot of people and cultures. Everyone in the community is warm and welcoming. The Bangor area is also a beautiful, quiet and affordable place to live.

As a DO, I see lots of patients with musculoskeletal anatomy issues — people who experience pain in their neck, shoulders, or back. I specifically treat the body’s interconnected system of nerves, muscles and bones; and potentially complement that treatment with traditional medicine therapies. Overall, I focus more on what patients can do to positively impact how their body functions by taking care of it.

A primary care practice, like St. Joseph Family Medicine-Broadway, which has both MDs and DOs is a wonderful bonus for patients because it functions like a brain trust. Different resources and perspectives are available to ensure patients receive the care that best meets their needs.

Many new patients haven’t seen a primary care provider in several years. When they take the first step to be seen — it’s a clean slate for them to begin taking better care of themselves.

I talk with new patients about their experiences, medical history and current medications. I want to know where they are in life. I aim to address any underlying issues that may adversely affect their health. Then, we can take steps and plan for being well.

• Do your best to eat a well-balanced diet. Try a high-fiber, low-carbohydrate diet filled with foods you enjoy. The body is incredibly adaptive and we should nourish it properly.
• Pursue what fulfills you. Whether it’s your family, job or hobby, Find something that brings meaning to your life, and many other things will fall into place.
• Foster strong relationships with positive people. Genuinely connect with those around you. You’ll often instantly feel better.
• Get enough rest and sleep. Do your best to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Getting to bed on time may proactively minimize fatigue and anxiety.
• Make time for exercise. Whatever that means to you personally — stretching, walking, yoga, biking or anything that gets you moving.
• Implement small changes. Time increments of change can begin addressing issues in your life. Small wins will help motivate you to achieve even more.