Brianne M. Vanderheyden, DO

Practice philosophy: I strive to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that treats the whole person, not just their diagnosis. I’m especially committed to serving underserved populations and making thoughtful, high-value decisions grounded in research. I value clear communication, continuity, and collaboration, and aim to build trust through clinical excellence, empathy, and a deep respect for each patient’s story.

What are you passionate about and why? I’m passionate about advancing equitable, evidence-based care for underserved patients who face barriers to access. I’m driven to understand both science and systems, ask thoughtful questions, and create data-driven solutions that improve outcomes and empower people through trust and advocacy.

If you weren't a health care provider, what would you be? A writer or policy analyst focused on health equity and systems change. Or a cheese monger.

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? Drawn by curiosity and compassion, I saw medicine unite science, service, and leadership—and stayed for the challenge, human connection, and opportunity to impact lives and systems.

What is something you have learned from your patients? I’ve learned we have more in common than we realize, can learn so much from each other, and that everyone loves sharing stories about their pets - even me.

What is one of the challenges of this career you enjoy? And why? I enjoy the challenge of solving complex problems - it pushes me to keep learning and grow while making a real difference in patients’ lives through thoughtful, personalized care.