Forward is the new approach to primary care, offering customized plans to help you control the future of your health. Today, we sit down with our newest Los Angeles physician Dr. Melissa Mueller to hear her take on tech-enabled, relationship-based care.
We’re thrilled to introduce our newest Forward Los Angeles physician, Dr. Melissa Mueller. Previously, Melissa attended medical school in Charleston, South Carolina and completed her residency in New York City. She joins Forward from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center where she practiced internal medicine.
What first drew you to practice medicine?
I found my love of science and biology at a young age, and through this, discovered my passion for the human body and healing. I really enjoy helping members understand their symptoms and how their bodies work.
What areas of interest do you have as a physician?
I’m interested in lifestyle modifications and helping members nurture healthy habits. A person’s lifestyle plays a such big role in their health, and ensuring healthy habits can really go a long way to both prevent and treat many medical issues.
What do you value most in your relationships with members?
I enjoy taking time to get to know members and to understand their health perspective. I value the importance of developing such a partnership with members in order to help maximize their health and wellness.
What is your experience of the current healthcare industry? Where would you most like to see improvements or changes?
I feel that the healthcare industry needs to get back to supporting physicians in being able to spend more time with members. This will help ensure that members have a better understanding of their health and are more able to set and reach their wellness goals.
Why did you decide to join Forward?
I’m very excited about incorporating technology in order to deliver the highest quality medical care, and to utilize this technology to motivate and empower members to be the healthiest they can be.
What has struck you as most different in the care here?
In my time here, I’ve already seen how the technology Forward has built can facilitate developing individual relationships with each of the members that I see. Rather than having to rush members through 5 minute appointments, the tech here has really allowed me to approach my care from a more personalized and holistic angle.
What’s one fun fact about you that our members might not know?
I am an avid tennis fan!