By Rod Grainger, Chief Executive Office of MCHC Health Centers
“Reverence for human life and individual dignity is both the hallmark of a good physician and the key to truly beneficial advances in medicine.”
These words, originally written by Dr. Elmer Hess, were quoted by President George H.W. Bush in 1991 when he officially recognized March 30 as National Doctors’ Day. This day honors the essential role medical providers play in the health and well-being of our communities. Their emphasis on respect, quality care, and knowing the individual continues to resonate with me as I think of our local medical providers.
The unwavering commitment of doctors
Doctors dedicate their lives to caring for others, supporting patients’ physical and mental well-being. Through pandemics, financial uncertainty, and changes in leadership, they continue to show up, providing expertise, compassion, and stability when we need it most. No matter the challenges, they remain dedicated and steadfast, offering the care and attention that make a difference in our lives.
In rural areas, we feel the nationwide shortage of doctors acutely. While 20% of the U.S. population lives in rural communities, only 10% of doctors practice there. This makes the role of doctors in communities like ours even more critical. The people who dedicate themselves to this field are not only passionate about medicine but also deeply committed to their patients. They often go above and beyond, staying late to see one more patient or consult with a colleague, regularly seeing dozens of patients each day.
Their work goes far beyond diagnoses and treatment. They guide patients through the toughest moments, celebrate recoveries, and stand beside families in times of loss. Their commitment requires long hours, continual learning, and an unwavering devotion to their patients.
A relationship of mutual care
One of the things I hear most from our providers is how much they appreciate this community. I hear stories from patients about getting squeezed in during an exceptionally busy day or the follow-up care they received after an appointment. These stories extend beyond our clinic walls. A provider might see a patient in the morning and bump into them at school pick-up or the grocery store. One medical provider recently shared that she attends a Pilates class led by one of her patients; another patient is her auto mechanic. In small communities, these relationships are a two-way street. Providers care for people who in turn care for them.
As we celebrate Doctors’ Day, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to all the doctors in our community. I am proud to work alongside many of you who have dedicated themselves to working at clinics like ours, providing service to everyone who seeks care, regardless of background, insurance status, or ability to pay. To all the doctors in our communities your efforts, the compassionate care you provide, your skills and your sacrifice do not go unnoticed.
And I also want to thank you, the members of this community, for making our county a place where relationships of mutual trust and care thrive. In our community, we all need each other. Our doctors are here for us through every challenge, and I am grateful for all the ways you support and appreciate them.
Rod Grainger is the CEO of MCHC Health Centers, a community-based and patient-directed organization that provides comprehensive primary healthcare services as well as supportive services such as education and translation that promote access to healthcare. MCHC includes Hillside Health Center and Dora Street Health Center in Ukiah, Little Lake Health Center in Willits, and Lakeview Health Center in Lakeport.
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