Mendez, David, MD

People are often curious as to why one chooses medicine as a career. For me, it was a strong desire to help people maintain a healthy lifestyle and to fight the challenges of chronic illness. Of course, applied physiology in medicine has always fascinated me. The scope of illness and multigenerational nature of family medicine is very satisfying. I embrace all disciplines and patient ages that family medicine encompasses. In particular, geriatrics is challenging as it is multidisciplinary in management. Adolescent medicine is important as it lays the cornerstone for lifelong healthy habits. I truly enjoy all aspects of family medicine, and that is why I chose it for a career. My philosophy of practice is prevention of disease with a focus on personalized care. The numerous resources available in today's medical environment empowers a family doctor in ways that have never previously been possible. I am married with three adult children and one beagle. My outside interests include golf, swimming, gardening, paddle boarding and trail walking. I also volunteer in the PORCH program (a food service for the underprivileged).

I chose to become a doctor because I enjoy helping people, not just in treating an illness or chronic condition but also in prevention and leading healthy lifestyles. My philosophy of care is that the best medicine is prevention and making healthy lifestyle choices so that patients can not only be well but thrive to live physically and mentally active, productive lives. My areas of special interest include weight-loss management and preventive care. Outside of work, I like to spend time with my kids and wife, the outdoors, running, swimming, biking and doing triathlons.

After 20 years of practicing/teaching medicine, I truly believe it was a calling. I believe strongly that many chronic diseases can be prevented with lifestyle changes, so my patients can expect me to focus a lot on their lifestyle choices. Prevention is at the heart of all my encounters with my patients. Since many of my patients struggle with weight issues, I obtained further training in weight management and received board certification in Obesity Medicine. Using evidence-based therapies, I have helped hundreds of patients lose weight long-term to the point of decreasing their blood pressure and diabetes medications. It truly is a joy to see my patients make healthy lifestyle choices and reverse some of their chronic diseases. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking and kayaking. I volunteer regularly at our public schools and local church.