Lucas Hammell, DO

Practice philosophy: Healthcare is a patient-centered and directed act in seeking improved health through shared-decision making between the advice of a trained clinician and the patient. I try to embody this concept through acting as a navigator and the patient the captain of the ship.

What are you passionate about and why? I am energized by ways to help people achieve health and quality of life that is equitable, safe, effective, and high value.

If you weren't a health care provider, what would you be? Engineer or farmer.

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? I always wanted to help others and was fascinated by the sciences. The human body is amazing and connecting that with the human condition and experience of life is the best honor.

What is something you have learned from your patients? Empathy and compassion are more important than being the smartest in the room. No matter how brilliant an idea may be, if we cannot connect with patients it won’t matter much.

What is one of the challenges of this career you enjoy? And why? We are all different people and it is sometimes difficult to reach common understanding. Finding ways to connect to each other gives me the greatest satisfaction.

What is your personal health goal? Healthy weight loss and keeping up with my sons.

What is the best thing you've done for your health or the best health advice you've received? Don’t sit still and stay active.

What are you most proud of? My two sons and my marrying my wife.

What are a few of your personal achievements? I’ve been president of a state medical society and currently am president-elect of another state medical society. I’m currently finishing an MHA that required a lot of hard work.