Nadine Nixon, MD

Practice philosophy: Without clear information, patients cannot make good decisions. It is not for me to decide what might be "too difficult" and therefore fail to impart evidence-based information. However, ultimately a patient is the one who lives with the consequences, and their choices should be honored without shame. Every effort should be made to meet patients' where they are. A well-constructed collaborative upfront agenda at the beginning of every visit is essential.

What are you passionate about and why? Healthy diet, physical activity, and mental health. I believe in Family Medicine and its focus on family systems. Fixing our broken health care system is important, requires more than money/ access. Our food choices make us and the environment sicker, to the detriment of future generations.

If you weren't a health care provider, what would you be?  High school biology teacher or college professor/ researcher.

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you?  I can't remember a time that I did not want to be a physician. I chose family medicine because I wanted to be a GP, to be able to take care of any patient anywhere anytime.

What is something you have learned from your patients?  It is an extremely rare person that doesn't need practice changing a bad habit into a healthy one.

What is one of the challenges of this career you enjoy? And why?  Medical knowledge = interventions and diagnosis, and is not enough to do this work well. The other "stuff" is the icing. There is no greater reward than good patient care.

What is your personal health goal?  Get 450 minutes moderate intensity exercise each week, eat a whole food plant based diet.

What is the best thing you've done for your health or the best health advice you've received?  Eating a whole-food plant based diet

What are you most proud of?  I am the only physician in my family, and do not come from financial privilege. I am a product of public schools and was able to pay off my student loans by myself. All the joys and pains of this profession are mine, not the fault or pride of anyone else.

What are a few of your personal achievements?  9 half-marathons. I have a wonderful vegetable and perennial garden. I am an excellent cook. I exercise almost every day.