We are so excited to welcome Jennifer Schwenk, MD, to Bon Secours West End Internal Medicine.
“I grew up with a love of science and then later, through some wonderful volunteer experiences abroad, I realized I wanted to be actively caring for patients rather than sitting behind a microscope,” Dr. Schwenk shares.
Dr. Schwenk received her medical training from the University of Miami, as well as her Master of Public Health Studies. She then completed her medical residency for primary care internal medicine at George Washington University.
“I love primary care internal medicine because I get to focus on the entire patient and how all the body systems interact, as well as environment and emotional impacts on their health,” Dr. Schwenk explains. “I am passionate about lifestyle medicine and how we can prevent chronic disease.”
In addition to her training as a primary care physician, Dr. Schwenk is also board-certified in obesity medicine.
“I love seeing patients make healthy changes that they know they can stick with for the rest of their lives,” she shares. “I also love being able to then discontinue medications because my patients have done such a great job of owning their health.”
Dr. Schwenk also enjoys seeing patients for primary care mental health concerns, such as depression and anxiety.
And in regard to joining our team at Bon Secours, Dr. Schwenk shares that she is excited to be “part of a health care organization that focuses on providing great care for the whole patient population and not just financial success.”
Dr. Schwenk adds that she is excited to be able to “put down roots” in Richmond and help those her in her community.
“I want my patients to know that I am always willing to listen to their concerns and work together to make a treatment plan.”
Overall, Dr. Schwenk understands the importance of trust and collaboration in the patient-physician relationship.
“Patients should feel comfortable asking questions about their health care, and providers should feel comfortable being questioned. Having a personality fit is important so you feel like you’re on the same team and working towards the same goals.”
When she is not seeing patients, Dr. Schwenk loves exploring natural areas with her husband and two children. She also enjoys playing tennis and painting.
Dr. Schwenk is now accepting new patients at West End Internal Medicine. Learn more about all the primary care services we offer at Bon Secours.
