By Cici Winiger
UKIAH >> There may be a shortage of primary care physicians nationwide, but there isn’t a shortage in Mendocino and surrounding counties with the addition of Dr. Kimberley Hanneken, MD, family medicine physician at Ukiah Valley Rural Health Center.
As a family physician, Hanneken specializes in providing care for men, women and children. She diagnoses and treats many conditions and offers a wide range of services, including preventive medicine, such as vaccinations, annual physical exams; management of ongoing chronic illnesses and treatment of acute or serious medical conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension.
“I always knew I wanted to be a family medicine physician. I love being able to take care of patients of all ages and build relationships with families over time,” Hanneken said. “As a mom, I understand how important it is to have a great relationship with your doctor and to find a physician that you can trust to care for your whole family,” she adds.
Hanneken earned her medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago. She then completed her residency in family medicine at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Decatur.
“I feel that having a child has made me a better doctor. I am able to relate to my patients in a whole new way,” she said.
Hanneken is passionate about women’s health and caring for children and is also a supporter of breastfeeding. Asked why she chose a career in family medicine, Hanneken says she enjoys the variety.
“There’s never a dull moment throughout my day, and I love that.”
Hanneken likes to promote preventive medicine with her patients. “I’m a collaborator and a straight shooter. I like to work with my patients to give them the best care. I think it’s important to focus on preventing health problems from happening, rather than just fixing them if and when they do occur,” she said. “Medications are a tool, but sometimes lifestyle changes are better option to try first. I try to work with my patients and give them as much information to help them make the best decisions about their health.”
Asked what brought her to Ukiah, Hanneken says it’s “everything.”
“It checks everything on my list: the people, the landscape, activities and proximity to family,” she said.
Hanneken especially loves the outdoors and the chance to do the things she loves; spending time with her family, running, hiking, yoga, music, dance, Buddhist studies and meditation.
“I look forward to working with the compassionate and cohesive team of caregivers here at the Rural Health Center. This opportunity is a great fit for me. I am excited to get started and to care for this community.”
Hanneken is welcoming new patients at the family practice office at Ukiah Valley Rural Health Center, located at 260 Hospital Drive, Suite 209 in Ukiah. Call (707) 463-7488 or visit www.uvmc.org for more information.
