Primary Care and Senior Health Resources

Background

I have been practicing in Asheville since 1997. I am board certified in family medicine, with special interests in sports medicine and preventative health. I strive to help my patients make informed choices to optimize their health and wellness.

Education

• BA, Biology – University of Virginia
• MD – University of Michigan Medical School
• Family Medicine Residency – MAHEC, Asheville

Life and Hobbies

I love spending time outdoors, especially mountain biking, hiking, gardening, and photographing nature. I also enjoy sci-fi films and visiting our National Parks. I have been a competitive runner most of my life and enjoy treating amateur athletes. My wife, Diana Curran, is a public health physician in Henderson County. We have two teenagers, a dog, and a crested gecko.

Background

After spending 14 years as a bedside ICU nurse and seeing firsthand the consequences of less-than-ideal lifestyle choices, I wanted to focus on preventative health care. I believe health care should be proactive, not reactive. I love being able to interact with my patients and discuss their goals of care. Collaborating with my patients is one of my favorite aspects of what I do on a daily basis.

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing: William Carey University
• Masters of Science in Nursing: Frontier Nursing University

Life and Hobbies

I enjoy doing hot yoga, hiking, and spending time with my family. I am married with 3 children, and I live in Candler.

Background

The reason I became a doctor was shaped by a challenging experience with the healthcare system. My doctor at the time encouraged me to go to medical school to make impactful changes in how care is rendered. He said, “who better to make changes than someone who has lived through it and has seen the flaws in our current system.”

Education

• Undergrad: Duke University
• Medical School: Medical School at East Carolina with the UNC Board of Governor’s Scholarship
• Internship & Residency: University of Louisville

Life and Hobbies

I enjoy baking and nurturing my canine companions. I take care of dogs with significant medical needs, offering them a nurturing and affectionate home.

“I enjoy personal interactions with people, problem solving, and helping others improve their health.”

Background‍

My love of science and calling to serve others is what made me want to become a Physician.

Education

• Undergraduate: Goshen College – BA Biology
• Medical School: Indiana School of Medicine – MD
• Residency: Family Medicine Residency Program – Memorial Hospital of South Bend

Life and Hobbies

I enjoy spending time with family and friends, exercising, cooking, and watching sporting events. I live in Burnsville with my wife Britt. We raised three children here but are now empty nesters.

“I love to educate patients. I find it a win when I can help them understand the plan of care.”

Background

Growing up, I was influenced by my neighbor who was a nurse. She was always the one to help fix our “boo boos”. Once I became a nurse, there were many changes in the field that led me to decide that I wanted to do more, especially in the rural health community.

Education

• Undergrad: Maryland Community College and Lee-McRae College, BSN
• Master’s in Nursing, FNP: East Tennessee State University

Life and Hobbies

I am married with two beautiful children, one 3 years old, and one 6 years old. My family loves to spend time vacationing, especially at the beach. I really enjoy running as a form of self-care. I was raised in the area and remain local to Burnsville.

“The most fulfilling part of my job is seeing my patients happy and gaining the best quality of life for their current situation.”

Background‍

As a young child I knew I wanted to be a nurse. For the past ten years I have been practicing nursing in many different settings. Throughout my career I have worked with local providers and seen their contribution to the families in our community. I decided to become a Nurse Practitioner so that I could provide the same support to families and advocate for their healthcare needs on a more personal level.

Education

• Undergraduate: Lee McRae College
• Master’s in Nursing: South University of Georgia

Life and Hobbies

I love spending time with my husband and two kids. We enjoy camping, riding ATVs, and being with our close group of friends and family. My husband and I also operate a side business doing personalized wood laser engraving.

“I consider it a profound privilege as a provider to be involved in the most delicate and personal aspects of a patient’s life.”

Background

Local provider delivering outstanding care with a focus on patient-driven relationships.

Education

• Undergrad: Wake Forest University
• Masters of Science in Physician Assistant Studies: Elon University

Life and Hobbies

I am a North Carolina native, and spent my formative years in NC, attending school and embracing the unique fabric of the community. Outside of the clinic, I enjoy camping with my husband and son, navigating trails, running, playing tennis, and tending to my garden.

“Our goal is to provide incredibly high value, high quality care specifically to the Medicare population and the focus is on quality as opposed to quantity.”

Background

• Board certified in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics
• Dr. Fletcher previously worked as a PCP, hospitalist and regional medical director over primary care for Mission Hospital McDowell in Marion

Education

• Undergraduate Degree at Virginia Tech
• Medical School at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
• Combined Internal Medicine and Pediatrics residency at Pennsylvania State University

Life and Hobbies

I live in Marion with my wife and two daughters. I enjoy being active in my local community and church as well as golfing, cooking and working on home remodeling projects.

“I have a strong commitment to treating patients as whole persons.”

Background

Double boarded in Family Medicine and Hospice/Palliative Care

Education

• Master of Public Health at the University of Minnesota

• Medical School at Vanderbilt University

• Family Medicine residency at the University of Minnesota

Life and Hobbies

I live in Western North Carolina with my wife and three daughters. I enjoy hiking, traveling and I am an avid open water marathon swimmer. I play the banjo and piano. I was fortunate enough to spend time with Mother Theresa and also spent 10 years in the Air Force.

Read more about Dr. Westbrook here.

“Spending time with patients is what I find most fulfilling.”

Background‍

I had several fantastic physicians during my youth that inspired me to become a Physician Assistant.

Education

• Undergrad: UNC Chapel Hill, BA Chemistry and Master’s in Public Health
• Medical School: University of North Dakota at Grand Forks, Physician Assistant

Life and Hobbies

I enjoy spending time with my family and dogs. I love to cook and spend time at Edisto Beach, SC. My wife and I have a total of 6 children and 7 grandchildren.

“I joined Hopscotch because they place more value in quality of care and strive for the best patient outcomes.”

“I joined Hopscotch because they place more value in quality of care and strive for the best patient outcomes.”

“I love getting to know my patients. Not just their medical problems but them as people. I like to know about their personal interests, hobbies, their job history, their families, etc.”

Background‍

I excelled in math and science in school and always knew I wanted to be a doctor of some kind, even as a small child. For many years I wanted to be a veterinarian but when I realized I couldn’t just sit and cuddle the animals all day, I decided to switch towards caring for people instead. I even get to hug some patients from time to time!

I love getting to know my patients. Not just their medical problems but them as people. I like to know about their personal interests, hobbies, their job history, their families, etc. This is why I enjoy Family Medicine so much as I love taking care of families and to see how family dynamics can impact a person’s health.

Education

• Undergraduate: University of Texas Austin
• Medical School: University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston
• Internship and Residency both completed at MAHEC Family Health Center in Asheville

Life and Hobbies

I enjoy playing golf, going to the gym, doing jigsaw puzzles, tasting fine bourbons, traveling, and spending time with friends. I have lived in Weaverville, NC since 2001. I have been married for 22 years and do not have any children of my own, but I do have 3 nephews, 2 Godchildren and 3 fur babies (2 dogs and 1 cat).

Background‍

Worked in ER medicine for 5 years and at the University of Kentucky Trauma Surgery for 6 years before changing to primary care. Becoming a PA was a second career after working in research for several years. I was always curious about what our research was doing to patients, how it was translating from the bench to the bedside. I love the constant opportunity to learn and challenge myself in medicine. The longer one practices medicine, the more they know, and the more knowledge they can impart to help people. That’s a special gift.

Education

• University of Kentucky, Undergraduate and PA School

Life and Hobbies

I like kayaking, Everton Football Club, and traveling. My wife and I live in Weaverville. We moved here from Lexington, KY so she can attend the Daoist Traditions College of Chinese Medical Arts.

“I love the relationships and connections with patients and being part of their healing journeys. ”

Background‍

My initial interest in becoming a doctor stemmed from my love for my pediatrician (especially the lollipops he gave to his patients!). As I grew older, I was drawn to learning and teaching and listening to peoples’ stories and medicine was a great combination of these.

Education

• Undergrad: College of the Holy Cross
• Medical school: University of Massachusetts Medical School
• Residency: East Carolina University School of Medicine Family Medicine; Chief Resident

Life and Hobbies

I reside in Asheville, I have nurtured two daughters in this vibrant community. Outside of work, I find joy in outdoor activities and in tending to my cherished plants. Additionally, I value quality time with my family and embarking on travel adventures.

“What I love most about practicing medicine is the privilege of hearing patient’s stories and being a part of their health journey, as it is through human connection and understanding that true healing can occur.”

Background‍

As a child I wanted to become a doctor because I was thrilled by the idea that one could be a scientist and help people at the same time. As I grew older, my interests shifted and I began a career in law and policy with a special interest in advocacy for women. I realized that medicine provides the perfect opportunity both to connect with people through individualized care as well as to address health care needs at a community and systems level through teaching, advocacy and public health.

Education

• Undergrad: James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA
• Medical School: University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC
• Residency: MAHEC (Mountain Area Health Education Center), Asheville, NC

Life and Hobbies

When not working I enjoy spending time with friends and family, trail running in our beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina, hiking, camping, gardening and seeing live music, especially outside. I am an avid traveler, and my favorite trips take me to far flung places where I can sleep outside.

“I have always been intrigued with having the opportunity to potentially help someone on a daily basis.”

Background

Growing up in a small rural town, I observed the positive impact and leadership role physicians played in my community. I love the relationships that develop and stories that are shared.

Education

• Undergraduate: BS in Biology with minor in Chemistry
• Medical School: Mercer School of Medicine
• Residency: MAHEC/Pardee Family Practice Residency-Hendersonville NC
• Rural Health Fellowship: MAHEC/Blueridge Health Center-Hendersonville NC

Life and Hobbies

I love to ride my mountain bike and read a good book. I live in Brevard North Carolina with my wife, Lana. I have one daughter in college, Ella.

“Often times I have found that just being present for someone can mean so very much.”

Background‍

Some of my earliest memories are ‘doctoring’ my baby dolls and our kittens. In 2017, I became quite ill. I had many symptoms that didn’t feel right to me. No one believed me even despite teaching nursing at the time and having a great career in academics. Finally, an ER provider found the issue. I decided then if I made it to the other side, I would go back into clinical practice to help others have a voice when things were not going so well for them.

Education

• Undergraduate: BSN, Clayton State University, Morrow, GA
• Medical School: MSN, Georgia College and State University, Milledgeville, GA
• Post-Graduate Studies: Adult Gerontology Advanced Practice, Maryville University

Life and Hobbies

I enjoy hiking and mountain biking. You can often find me in a local yoga studio pretending that I know what all those poses really are! I have been married to my husband David for over 30 years. We currently live in Sapphire, NC.

“One of the most fulfilling and enjoyable parts of working in medicine is connecting with patients. I truly love the opportunity to learn every patient’s unique story.”

Background‍

I became interested in medicine in high school when I took my first course in medical terminology. I then went on to take another course which allowed me to obtain my CNA license. Even then I valued connecting with patients and learning how to make them feel better.

Education

• Undergrad: Johnson C. Smith University
• Graduate Studies in Physiology: North Carolina State University
• PA Studies Graduate Degree: Methodist University

Life and Hobbies

When I’m not working, I enjoy traveling, reading, and spending time with my friends and family. I currently live in Gastonia, NC.

“I enjoy educating patients to empower them to make good health decisions.”

Background‍

I decided to pursue a career in healthcare to make a difference in the lives of others. I worked as an emergency department nurse for 8 years prior to getting my nurse practitioner degree.

Education

• Undergrad: University of North Carolina Charlotte 
• Medical School: Gardner-Webb University

Life and Hobbies

I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, hiking, and reading good books. I live in Shelby, North Carolina. My husband and I have two children together, one girl and one boy.

Background

I had several role models in my life growing up that were Physicians and Medical Providers, including a lifelong mentor that is a Family Medicine Doctor. Through their example I was always motivated to pursue medicine. While completing my CNA certification classes and becoming a Medical Assistant, I confirmed that engaging with patients directly and supporting their needs brought me joy and fulfillment. Supporting patients as their provider and helping them navigate their health and life is such a rewarding privilege.

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration: Appalachian State University
• Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies: Wake Forest University

Life and Hobbies‍

I manage a team in the local adult soccer league, ABASA. My wife and I own and manage two local coffee shops (SummitCoffee). I live in Asheville (West Asheville) and have been married for 12 years to my wife Kendall. We have 2 kids, Lydia (5 years old) and Aiden (2 years old), and a Golden Retriever puppy who is about 8 months old.

“My personal mission is to continue putting humanity back into medicine.”

Background‍

From my start in healthcare as a US Navy Hospital Corpsman, throughout my tenure as a 911 paramedic, and then as a clinician, I’ve been drawn to helping people manage their health concerns. Medicine allows me to incorporate that passion with a desire to continuously learn better ways to achieve our desired quality of life.

Education

• Undergraduate: Excelsior College – Bachelor & Associate in Nursing
• Graduate: Chamberlain University, Master’s in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
• Medical School: University of Central Florida – Doctor of Nursing Practice

Life and Hobbies

I love spending time enjoying the beauty of Western North Carolina’s mountains, camping, reading, and being at the beck and call of our two fur babies. I am married with two stepchildren and a six-year-old grandson.

Read more about Chuck here.

“I love getting to meet so many interesting patients, and helping them with their health-related concerns. My goal is for my patients to feel heard and cared for, and to establish a therapeutic patient-centered relationship”

Background

Previously I worked as a hospital RN, caring for critically ill patients with a wide range of neurological disorders and other medical problems. I cared for many stroke patients, which I enjoyed and learned a lot from. I decided to pursue a career where I could make more of an impact, helping people avoid preventable illness and debility. My ultimate life goal is to make a positive contribution to the world by helping people lead healthier, happier lives.

Education

• BSN, Western Carolina University
• Master of Science in Nursing, Western Carolina University

Life and Hobbies

I enjoy caring for the animals and gardens on our hobby farm. I also enjoy sewing, reading, and any outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, trail running, biking, skiing, and swimming. I live in Alexander, about 25 minutes north of Asheville. I am married with two kids, ages 3 and 11.

“As a child I was always fascinated by medical science. I have also always considered myself compassionate and caring. Combining these traits with my interest and education led me to choose healthcare as my career path.”

Background‍

I enjoy helping people and providing education on ways to better care for themselves. It is fulfilling to see patients’ health problems improve through the guidance of my care.

Education

• Undergraduate Degree in Nursing: Lee McRae College
• Graduate degree in Nursing: East Tennessee State University

Life and Hobbies

I enjoy yoga, hiking, biking, boating, and camping. I love being outside in my flower garden and spending time with my family. I currently live in Boone. I am married and I have 2 children (boys) who are 11 and 14.

“Establishing a relationship and getting to know with my patients and their family members is the most rewarding part of practicing medicine.”

Background‍

My inspiration for pursuing a career in medicine comes from my passion for serving my community and caring for others. Growing up in a small town, access to healthcare was limited. Providing accessible healthcare to my community was the motivation for me to become a nurse practitioner.

Education

• Undergraduate Degree in Nursing: University of South Carolina Upstate
• Undergraduate Degree in Exercise Science: The College of Charleston
• Graduate degree in Nursing: Lenoir Rhyne University

Life and Hobbies

I enjoy attending sporting events, concerts, and traveling. When I’m not working, I cheer on my son at his baseball games or support my daughter at her dance competitions. I am also actively involved in my church and love working with children and youth. I am originally from South Carolina and moved to Marion in 2008 after marrying my husband, who is a Marion native.

“I really enjoy the problem-solving component of each patient visit.”

Background‍

I once worked in Yellowstone Nation Park in a year of dramatic wildfires. The fires led to the parks closure. I ended up working in support of the fire crews.

Education

• Bachelor of Arts: Boston College
• Medical School: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Residency: Middlesex Hospital, Middletown, CT

Life and Hobbies

I currently live in Boone with my wife and two daughters. I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, running, and traveling. I also still like to explore our national parks. 

“I find that creating strong patient relationships, interprofessional relationships, educating patients, and helping patients with community resources are the most fulfilling parts of practicing medicine.”

Background‍

I have always loved caring for others and the art of healing. I never considered a different career path.

Education

• Bachelor’s of Science in Biology with a concentration in Health Sciences: Lee McRae College
• Master’s of Medical Sciences in PA studies: Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale

Life and Hobbies

I reside in Boone NC with my 2-year-old German Shepherd/Hound pup named Blue. I enjoy hiking, yoga, lying in the sunshine, and spending time with my friends and family. I trained and played soccer from 5 years old to the collegiate level.