Your Doctor, Up Close
Brandon Allen, MD, Family Medicine, Livingston HealthCare
Why did you decide to become a doctor?
My childhood pediatrician returned to residency to become an OB-GYN and delivered my youngest brother. His impact on my family—and later on entire communities through mission work—inspired me to apply to medical school and ultimately pursue family medicine.
What’s one health habit you wish everyone would start today?
Movement is Medicine! I would love for everyone to get out and move their bodies for 30 minutes a day.
If you weren’t a doctor, what would you be doing?
I am fascinated by nature and our amazing immune system! I would have pursued a career in either Biotechnology or Wildlife Biology had I not found the field of medicine.
How do you recommend patients prepare for a doctor’s appointment to get the most out of it?
1)Write down a list of questions ahead of time so you don’t forget anything.
2) Bring an updated medication list.
3) Make sure you sign a records release form with your out-of-town specialists, so we are up to speed with any changes that have happened.
What’s the most memorable patient interaction you’ve ever had (without revealing identities)?
My most memorable patients are those I have seen acutely in the ER at their most vulnerable times, helped provide (or transferred for) definitive treatment and then followed in clinic longitudinally. Seeing these relationships come full circle and deepen over time is the epitome of rural medicine and confirms that this is the right career for me.
What’s the most challenging part of your job — and most rewarding?
Navigating insurance companies, prior authorizations and the general challenges of getting patients the lifesaving medications they need and deserve is a constant challenge.
The relationships we build with patients that extend to entire families and communities is by far the most rewarding part of Family Medicine.
Do you have any personal health habits you struggle to maintain yourself?
I struggle to get 8 hours of sleep every night
What’s your favorite food?
I love Texas barbecue and some great street tacos!
If you could prescribe one thing to make everyone happier, what would it be?
Golden Retriever cuddles q1hr prn!(every hour as needed)