Dominique Bothwell, D.O., is a family medicine physician at Utica Park Clinic (UPC). Her professional areas of interest include lifestyle medicine, pediatrics and women's/menopause health.

Dr. Bothwell’s inspiration to pursue a career in medicine began at the age of 7 years old, when she witnessed her brother’s birth. “This dream was further defined through personal life experiences, such as having my own health issue that I was able to cure through diet and lifestyle changes. Lastly, my love for people and walking through tough seasons with others has also perpetuated my dream of being a physician,” said Dr. Bothwell.

While she initially wanted to become a pediatrician, life and the journey through medical school changed that course. Dr. Bothwell said she had a hard time focusing on one specialty because she loved all aspects of medicine. “Family medicine was the one focus that would allow me to treat the whole family from birth to the end of life. I love building relationships with others, lead by compassion and love so having the opportunity to know and treat the whole family was important to me. Lastly, after completing a Christian residency, I see the importance of serving the marginalized and poor through domestic and international missions, and family medicine allowed me to be trained as full-spectrum as possible.”

As Dr. Bothwell continues to care for her patients, she makes sure to put her best foot forward when connecting with each person. She said, “I've always been told that my open, compassionate, empathetic personality in and of itself makes others feel comfortable.” Dr. Bothwell believes most humans have a deep desire to be seen, heard and feel safe, so she said she intentionally listens and takes a genuine interest in her patients, which she explains can carry value. “I love hearing life stories and know that our social histories, where we come from and who was are also affects our medical background,” she said.

Dr. Bothwell also wants to point out to patients, she likes to not only get medical history but to learn about social history, such as psycho, social and spiritual, if desired. “I love to offer prayer to my patients,” she adds.

Outside of providing care, Dr. Bothwell enjoys hiking, traveling, trying new plant-based recipes and restaurants. She adds, “But the thing that brings me the most joy is spending time with my heavenly Father, Jesus, my husband and children. I love my family.”

Dr. Bothwell’s reminder to patients is that “I am here as your coach and cheerleader, so let's come up with a plan together and I will motivate you to achieve your health goals. Medicine is so much more than pharmaceuticals, how can I help you to naturally feel better as well, how can we manage stress, diet, exercise, stop any unhealthy habits, etc.”