Justin Koenig, do - Beacon Medical Group Ireland Road

About Dr. DaughertyHe doesn't remember a specific moment he decided to become a doctor. But Dr. Mitchell E. Daugherty has been around medicine his entire life; his mother and sister are both nurses. "I thought I would enjoy practicing medicine, so I made it my personal goal, and I stuck with it. My love of science classes along with volunteer work in local physician offices and hospitals helped solidify this decision."To achieve this goal, Dr. Daugherty pursued his medical degree at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Rockford after receiving his bachelor of science at the University of Illinois in Urbana. He completed his Family Medicine Residency at Memorial Hospital in South Bend and his Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship at The Ohio State University.The most important knowledge for Dr. Daugherty came from outside of school. "I learned medicine from textbooks and teachers, but I've learned how to be a good physician from my patients. No two patients are the same, and they don't often follow the textbook presentation."He uses this knowledge when treating patients. "I see patients of all ages for their primary care needs, but I also have a specialized interest in treating acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries and guiding patients to maintain a physically active lifestyle," he says. "As a sports medicine physician, I will always push to keep you mobile, active and exercising throughout your entire life."As for what Dr. Daugherty hopes patients learn from him? "Each patient's question and concern is important, and it is an honor and a privilege to be a part of their health care team and help them achieve a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle."In his own wordsWho is or was the most influential person/role model in your life? My parents. I have been blessed with wonderful role models who have helped me get to where I am today, and I work hard each day to emulate their values.What was your first job growing up? Detailing cars at a local car dealership. It was hard work but a great job starting out. You would not believe how dirty some of the trade-ins are before they go out on the lot.If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased) who would it be and why? My great-grandpa Hess whom I was named after. I always have heard stories about what a great man he was, and I wish I had the chance to get to know him.In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? What are your hobbies, interests? Hunting, fishing, getting out and enjoying the great outdoors. Running, cycling, sand volleyball. St. Louis Cardinals baseball. Fighting Illini and Ohio State Buckeye sports.

About Caitlin Caitlin Vlaeminck, MSN, RN, FNP-BC, knew in high school that she wanted to be a nurse. While no family member was a clinical healthcare worker, her high school’s “world of work” rotation with a pediatric nurse helped her realize her calling. After becoming an RN and practicing at Memorial Hospital, Caitlin decided to further her education – and the care she was able to provide her community. “I knew I wanted to expand my nursing career, so I went back for my Family Nurse Practitioner certification and am currently in doctoral studies for my PhD in Nursing.” As for her specialty, Caitlin is drawn to helping patients with orthopedic diseases. “I have found my love in caring for patients with osteoporosis as it is a silent disease that is underdiagnosed and often untreated.” She chose Beacon because of our Bone & Joint Specialists’ commitment to screening for these underlying bone diseases and treating them effectively. Caitlin affects positive change by truly connecting with her patients and using their interests and goals to optimize their care. “I listen to my patients. I find out what they are passionate about and then use that information to make a plan that is unique for them. Every ‘body’ is different and not all patients can be managed the same.” In her own words… Who are/were the most influential people in your life? My parents. They have taught me about the importance of love, support and hard work. What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it? Helping my parents at the grocery store. I learned to be a morning person and have good work ethic. If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased) who would it be and why? Honestly, there are some family members who have died that I would love to see again. In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? Spiritual growth, advocating for nursing, sports, travel, making a difference. What are your hobbies, interests? Reading, singing, traveling, spending time outdoors with my family and friends.