We’re excited to introduce Dr. Sergio B. Villegas, the newest addition to Altais Medical Group Riverside.
Dr. Villegas brings a unique perspective to family medicine, shaped by his diverse background and experiences. Growing up on a ranch and being the first in his family to attend college, Dr. Villegas has a deep appreciation for rural communities and the challenges they face in accessing healthcare
Dr. Villegas specializes in Family Medicine, Preventive Care, and Complex Chronic Medical Management. His approach to healthcare is rooted in the belief that prevention is the best medicine, making health education a top priority in his practice. In this Q&A, we delve into his approach to healthcare, his journey in medicine, and his vision for serving the Riverside community.
What attracted you to a medical career?
My path to medicine started in my childhood. Growing up in an area with limited medical resources, I saw firsthand the impact of healthcare scarcity. A pivotal encounter with a doctor at age 8 sparked my interest. It opened my eyes to the possibility of becoming someone who could make a real difference in people’s lives through medicine.
What new development in your field holds promise?
In Family Medicine, we’re seeing exciting advancements in technology for disease detection and prevention. These tools are enhancing our ability to identify health issues early and intervene proactively. It’s about using innovation to improve patient care and outcomes in meaningful ways.
How would you improve our healthcare system?
I’d focus on two key areas: improving access to care and enhancing care coordination. We need to ensure that quality healthcare is available to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. Additionally, better coordination between different healthcare providers and services would lead to more efficient, effective care for patients.
What’s the greatest threat to the overall health of Americans?
Two interconnected issues stand out: lack of access to care and insufficient health education. When people can’t get the care they need or don’t have the information to make informed health decisions, it creates a significant barrier to overall wellness. Addressing these challenges is crucial for improving public health.
How can patients help you help them?
I view healthcare as a partnership. Patients who actively engage in their health journey – asking questions, expressing concerns, and advocating for themselves – enable me to provide more tailored, effective care. This collaborative approach often leads to better health outcomes.
What role does mental, emotional, and psychological health play in overall physical health?
Mental health is a fundamental component of overall well-being. There’s a strong connection between our mental, emotional, and physical health. Recognizing and addressing this interplay is essential for comprehensive patient care and achieving optimal health outcomes.
Are you a good patient?
I strive to be, but I’ll admit it’s not always easy. Being on the patient side of healthcare has given me valuable perspective. It’s helped me better understand the challenges my patients face and has ultimately made me a more empathetic physician.
What is it about you that would surprise your patients?
My roots in rural life run deep. I grew up on a ranch, which instilled in me a lasting appreciation for country living. Today, I maintain my own ranch, where I enjoy caring for various animals. Also, as the eldest of 10 siblings and the first in my family to attend college, my journey to becoming a doctor has been one of determination and breaking new ground.