Primary Care and Senior Health Resources

“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.”

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.

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.

“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 believe in treating the whole person—not just the numbers—by listening, teaching, and working together to improve overall well-being.”

Background

For me, the most fulfilling part of medicine has always been the relationships I build with my patients. I love spending time with them, getting to know them beyond their medical charts, and helping them feel better—not just improving their lab results. I believe that good healthcare is a collaboration, and I enjoy educating my patients and working alongside them to support their health and wellness.

Education

• Undergrad: The Johns Hopkins University

• Medical School: University of Florida College of Medicine

• Residency: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Life and Hobbies

I live in Burnsville, NC, with my husband, Greg, and our three daughters. Outside of work, I enjoy swimming and can’t wait for a pool to open in Spruce Pine so I don’t have to drive an hour to swim! I also love spending time outdoors hiking and gardening. One of my greatest passions is volunteering at the Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center, where I help provide horseback therapy for children and adults with mental and physical challenges.

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

Background

Education

Life & Hobbies

“Hopscotch is focused on the quality of care rather than the number of patients you see in a day. I don’t feel overburdened; I feel like I have a lot of time to see my patients and care for them.”

Background

Education

Life & Hobbies

“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.”

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!

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).

“The longer one practices medicine, the more they know, and the more knowledge they can impart to help people. That’s a special gift.”

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.

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.

“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.

“Supporting patients as their provider and helping them navigate their health and life is such a rewarding privilege.”

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.

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.

Read more about JT here.

“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.

Read more about Kari here.

“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.

“I enjoy forming lasting relationships with my patients and helping them achieve their best health.”

Background

My interest in medicine started at a young age, inspired by my mother’s work in healthcare. The physicians she worked with were generous with their time, allowing me to observe and explore their clinic. In high school, I had the opportunity to shadow several doctors, which further solidified my decision to pursue medicine.

I chose family medicine because I value forming meaningful, long-term relationships with my patients. Getting to know them and understanding their lives allows me to provide more personalized care. I believe that good healthcare goes beyond treating illnesses—it’s about helping patients make informed decisions that improve their overall well-being.

Education

• Undergraduate: BA, Biology from Campbell University (2010-2014)

• Medical School: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2014-2018)

• Residency: East Carolina University (2018-2021)

Life and Hobbies

I live in Spruce Pine, NC, with my wife and our two dogs. We love exploring the beautiful mountains in our region, especially through hiking. Every year, I challenge myself to learn a new outdoor activity—last year, it was mountain biking, and this year, my wife and I learned to ski. I’m also an avid hunter and fisherman. My passion for the outdoors carries over into my practice, where I encourage my patients to stay active and enjoy nature.

“I find it incredibly fulfilling when patients feel empowered to take charge of their health. Watching their curiosity and drive positively impact their outcomes is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. Joining Hopscotch Primary Care allows me to serve my local community in a way that aligns with my passion for patient education and empowerment.”

Background

My journey into medicine began at the intersection of a love for science and a deep-seated desire to help others. Initially working as a beach lifeguard and EMT, I developed a natural progression into nursing to expand my knowledge and skills while continuing to serve my community. My career reflects a commitment to making healthcare more accessible and personal, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and understanding in achieving better patient outcomes.

Education

• Undergraduate: Beloit College – Public Health
• Nursing School BSN/MSN: Emory University

Life & Hobbies

I live in Asheville, NC, with my wife, who is also a nurse practitioner, and our senior dog, Mira. When I’m not at work, I enjoy hiking, driving along winding roads, playing simulator games, and occasionally visiting local breweries. A fun fact about me is that I can usually earn most dogs’ trust within about 10 minutes—and even some cats, though they’re a bit more selective!

“I embrace a team-based, holistic approach to medicine that incorporates evidence-based medicine with lifestyle medicine, and addresses the patient from a holistic perspective.”

Background

Prior to joining Hopscotch Primary Care, I worked at Western North Carolina Community Health Services in Asheville where I led a team in providing integrative and collaborative care to my patients. At Hopscotch, I plan to leverage my vast experience in multiple cultures and organizations to provide compassionate, comprehensive healthcare. I am a lifelong learner and welcome the opportunity and privilege to be a team member with likeminded colleagues.

I was inspired to become a doctor by the compassion afforded to me by a resident physician during a hospital admission at age 10 and by my grandmother and mother, both of whom were nurses.

Education

• Undergraduate: B.S. Microbiology, University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, MI
• Doctoral Degree (Family Medicine): Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences – Bethesda, MD
• Internship/Residency: Martin Army Community Hospital – Fort Moore, GA

Life & Hobbies

I currently live in Asheville with my partner, but prior to moving here I spent time abroad in England and Germany while working as a Medical Director with the U.S. Army. I have two adult children. I enjoy spending time with family, nutrition/antiaging, exercising, reading classics, working on organic farm, wine tasting, and making pizzas in my outdoor pizza oven. Fun fact about me: I used to jump out of perfectly well-flying aircraft!

Read more about Dr. Contino here.

“I have always desired to be helpful to others. Nursing was always what I wanted to do.”

Background

Helping others has always been my passion, and that’s what led me to pursue a career in healthcare. Over the years, I’ve found my calling as a nurse practitioner specializing in geriatrics, where I enjoy improving the quality of life for older adults and helping them age comfortably in their homes and communities.

Education

• B.S. Nursing – East Tennessee State University (2009)
• M.S. Nursing – Duke University (2017)

Life & Hobbies

I currently live in Burnsville, NC, with my husband of 15 years and our two children. When I’m not working, my family and I love going on camping adventures in our RV. Here’s a fun fact about me: I can’t whistle! My husband teases me about it all the time.

“I feel that my most important role is to listen—so my patients can share what they truly need. From there, we can work together to improve their health through lifestyle changes, medications, or both.”

Background
I’ve wanted to be a physician since elementary school, and my passion only grew stronger with time. My first job after high school was as a phlebotomist, which gave me a front-row seat to many different medical specialties. The connection and care that primary care physicians shared with their patients inspired me the most and ultimately shaped my path.

I completed my undergraduate studies at Hollins University in Roanoke, Virginia, earned my medical degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and completed my residency in Kingsport, Tennessee, at East Tennessee State University.

I love getting to know my patients and learning about their unique stories and experiences. I believe those connections are key to providing thoughtful, personalized care.

Education

• Undergraduate: BA – Hollins University
• Medical School: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Internship and Residency: East Tennessee State University, Kingsport, TN

Life and Hobbies
When I’m not in the clinic, you’ll most likely find me at home on the farm in Rutherfordton, where I live with my husband and our two youngest children. (Our oldest is currently away at college at NC State!) I raise goats and have their fiber processed into yarn, which I weave into handmade shawls and scarves—a hobby that brings me both peace and joy.

“I’m honored to walk alongside my patients as they work toward healthier, more fulfilling lives—and I love empowering them to take charge of their health every step of the way.”

Background

My passion for medicine is rooted in personal experience. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be to have a provider you trust during life’s most vulnerable moments. That perspective drives me to be a supportive, compassionate presence for my patients—someone they can count on not just for answers, but for understanding.

I have a special interest in preventative medicine and enjoy partnering with patients to make meaningful lifestyle changes that improve long-term health, well-being, and longevity. Whether I’m helping someone manage a chronic condition or encouraging small steps toward a healthier routine, I’m deeply invested in their success. Building lasting relationships with my patients is truly one of the most fulfilling parts of this work.

Education

• Undergraduate: B.S, Athletic Training – Slippery Rock University

• Graduate: MSPAS, Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies – Shenandoah University

• Graduate: MPH, Master of Public Health – Shenandoah University

Life and Hobbies

I live in Arden, NC, with my three beloved fur babies—my dog Mika and two cats, Willow and Cali. I’m an avid adventurer and endurance athlete, and I love spending time outdoors doing things like hiking, backpacking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and practicing yoga. I also enjoy traveling “off the grid” in my converted van.

When I’m not exploring nature or training for triathlons and long-distance runs, you’ll probably find me in the kitchen cooking up new vegan recipes inspired by global flavors. One of my most unforgettable adventures? Snorkeling a continental divide in Iceland… during a blizzard!

“I believe that building trust with my patients is the foundation of great care—when people feel heard and validated, meaningful healing can begin.”

Background

I’ve known from a young age that I wanted to pursue a career in medicine. I’ve always been fascinated by how our health intersects with our genetics, environment, psychology, and upbringing. Being able to apply that curiosity to care for my community brings me genuine joy, and made becoming a PA an easy choice.

For me, the most rewarding part of practicing medicine is creating a space where patients feel listened to and understood. Building that trust is essential—it not only strengthens our relationship, but also directly improves the care I’m able to provide. While I practice across all areas of medicine, I have a special interest in psychiatry and palliative care. Both focus on quality of life, which I believe is a vital aspect of primary care.

Education

• Undergraduate: B.S, Health Science – Oakland University

• Graduate: MPAS, Master of Physician Assistant Studies – Wingate University

• Doctorate: DMS, Doctor of Medical Science – Shenandoah University

Life and Hobbies

I live in the Swannanoa area with my wife and our pets. We love exploring new places to eat and spending quality time together. I also enjoy diving into my ever-growing stack of books when I get the chance.

Fun fact: I’m the youngest of four siblings and the first person on either side of my family to be born in the United States—so technically, I’m the only one who could run for President (though I think I’ll stick with healthcare for now).