Michael Ropero, MD

I see being a doctor as a way not just to provide a service but also to serve in a role as an advocate for both patients and the community. This ability to work both on a day-to-day level with individuals as well as a broader capacity to serve communities is what drew me to medicine. Leading with my humanity has been the care philosophy on which I have relied most heavily. Approaching individuals in a way that is open and creating a space where patients feel welcome and safe is, I think, one of the most important aspects of what we do, and it allows us to be more attuned to patients needs inside and outside the clinic. My areas of interest are in the care of individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C in the primary care setting, using primary care homes as a way to optimize treatment of these conditions, and expansion of treatment on state and national levels of primary care involvement in the care of individuals with HIV, Hepatitis C and substance use disorders. Outside of work, I love spending time with my wife and two children, as well as playing music (guitar, banjo), reading, biking, and running.

For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be a doctor. My dad being a high school science teacher and my mom being a registered nurse might have had something to do with that dream. The idea of being part of something bigger than yourself, being able to serve in, and positively influence, the community is something that always interested me about medicine. Being able to help people get and stay well and healthy excites me. I believe the best kind of patient is a patient who is fully invested and interested in their wellness and healthcare. I truly think it is my job to present the patient with a list of options and to discuss the pros and cons of each. Every patient is different, so every situation and subsequent choice is unique. There are some straightforward decisions in medicine, but, most of the time, there are an array of choices and helping the patient making the best decision for themselves is a vital part of my job. Outside of the office, I can be found driving my children places and watching them play sports and grow into great human beings. I enjoy doing hot yoga and other forms of exercise.

My passion for sports medicine emerged from my love for movement and physical activity. Residency training and board-specialization in sports further developed my ability to help patients optimize their movement, physical health, and function so they can participate in sports and activities they love. Similar to sports, teamwork is key, and I view the patient-provider relationship as a team, working in partnership with patients to develop an individualized plan to facilitate progression towards their goals. I encourage patients to play an active role in their care and integrate patient education to promote long term health and well-being.