David Hedrick, MD

What do you like about IHTC and its approach to care?

IHTC has as a core philosophy that we will do whatever it takes to get the patient the care they need. It may take a little more time and we might encounter challenges, but our staff and physicians work together to consistently get every patient the best care we can provide. One of the reasons that I chose to work at the IHTC is because I support their belief of equal access to excellent medical care for all. 

What inspires you about your work?

I try as best as possible to match the care I provide to the patient’s own goals for their treatment. Sometimes in medicine, there is a single best option, but usually, there are several possible ways to diagnose and treat a symptom or disease. Many patients want the most aggressive care, but some are more interested in a watchful or minimal approach. I try to adapt my care to the patient’s needs and goals as often as possible.

What aspect of your work are you the most passionate about?

Communicating with patients is the best part of my workday. I love to sit and talk with my patients and their caregivers about their lives, their goals, and feelings—in addition to their disease and its treatments. I try to provide every patient with the time they need when they see me. Sometimes that is as little as a few minutes, but sometimes that can stretch longer or take place over several visits. I feel it’s important that no one feels rushed or unable to discuss everything they need.