Antonio Rodriguez, MD

I am a third-generation Internist. I grew up going on house calls and making rounds at the hospital with my dad in Wilmington, NC where I grew up. I saw the relationships he built with his patients over his career, and I knew that the interpersonal aspect of medicine is very important. I really enjoy the diagnostic aspect of internal medicine and the ability to provide preventive care as well, so internal medicine was a logical choice for me. My clinical interests include the management of chronic diseases, specifically cardiovascular disease, hypertension and hyperlipidemia, type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). I also enjoy sports medicine. My philosophy of care is getting to know patients on a personal level and providing individualized care to them based on what their values are. I also believe that an "ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Outside of work, I love to cook (and eat!), travel, practice yoga and play basketball.

I became a doctor because I was very interested in the science of medicine and wanted to do something of benefit to others. I believe it is important to have good communication with the patient, understanding their goals and main concerns. I like a team approach with each patient and family. I am married with four children, which takes all my time. I do like to read (about 10 minutes before I fall asleep). I used to play outdoor sports and fish, but coaching my kids and their teams is the closest I get to sports now.

While working in a German Neuroscience/Anatomy setting overseas, I was introduced to human medicine. I chose to pursue the hands on approach to relieve human suffering. My approach to care is straightforward: Encourage and empower patients to make necessary changes to improve their own quality of life. My goal is to help patients negotiate an increasing complex healthcare world. I am a firm believer that the world would be a better place with a song, home-cooked food, well-written poetry and a good run. My heat beats faster around performing music, using voice, guitar and piano skills. I enjoy spending time staying physically active in sports with my two growing sons.