My objective with every patient is to help them live their best and healthiest life. I communicate and care for them as if they are my close friends or family. During visits, I’m fully engaged and an active listener. Understanding and empathy are necessary for strong, close relationships of trust. It’s important that my patients feel truly valued and listened to — after all, it’s what I want when seeking medical care for myself! Those relationships make patient-centered care planning possible. By communicating clearly, we can ensure their treatment is tailored to their personal goals. It also empowers patients to take the lead in decision-making. I love using my interest and training in medicine to improve people’s quality of life. I couldn’t imagine a more fulfilling profession.