When it comes to your health, one of the best things you can do is build an ongoing relationship with a primary care doctor who empowers you to make informed decisions.
Virtual primary care is a convenient way to build this relationship via phone or video. Patients love that they can save time and money while taking control of their health. Doctors love virtual primary care, too, because it allows them to see their patients more often and when care is most needed.
Let's get to know one of our doctors. Rachelle Hippen, MD, is a First Stop Health Virtual Primary Care doctor who leads with compassion and trust. Read on to learn about Dr. Hippen and her approach to virtual care..png?width=960&name=Meet_Rachelle_Hippen%20(2).png)
Why did you choose to become a doctor?
I was always interested in science as a child, and when I was very young, I actually thought I wanted to be an astronaut. However, when I spent a week in the hospital after having spine surgery as a young teen, I was overwhelmed when I saw so many children who had been hospitalized with conditions that could have been prevented if they had had access to good healthcare. That’s when I decided to pursue medicine, and specifically, to work to ensure that as many people as possible had access to quality healthcare.
Where did you attend medical school?
I attended medical school at Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C. I completed my residency in Family Medicine at Banner University Medical Center in Phoenix, AZ. After completing residency, I worked for the National Health Service Corps, providing care to underserved populations in rural areas of Southern California, as well as inner city San Diego.
How long have you been practicing medicine?
Since 2008.
What is your medical specialty?
I am board-certified in Family Medicine.
Why do you love virtual primary care?
There are so many reasons why I love virtual primary care! But the most important thing to me is that it allows me to reach a diverse group of patients in a very convenient, personal way, while giving me the opportunity to build a relationship over time with my patients. This type of relationship can only come when patients are able to see the same provider consistently, and virtual primary care makes this much easier. I know how busy life can get, so my goal is to remove as many barriers as possible to taking care of your health.
What does care that people love® mean to you?
More than anything, care that people love means care that patients keep coming back to, and care that they want to share with their friends and family. When patients feel that you truly care about them, they will trust you to help them to care for themselves.
When you're not caring for patients, how do you spend your time?
When I am not working as a doctor, I am busy working my other full-time job, as a mom to 5 energetic little boys! I love running, playing the piano, and coaching my sons’ sports teams.
Get Started with Virtual Primary Care
Dr. Hippen could be your new virtual primary care doctor! To get started, simply request a visit, choose your doctor and schedule a time that works for you. During your first visit, your doctor will get to know your personal and family health history, ask questions, listen to your concerns, and make recommendations for your current and future health.
