We are happy to welcome Belinda Escanio, MD, to Bon Secours Suffolk Primary Care!
Dr. Escanio started her career in Spokane, Wash. where she worked at a federally qualified health center (FQHC) in a rural community for six years. She then returned to her hometown in Newport News, Va. where she provided care to underserved seniors before practicing family medicine.
“I wanted to do family medicine because I wanted to partner with my patients to make appropriate lifestyle changes for better health,” Dr. Escanio explains. “I like being able to educate patients about their health and the causes of their disease. Their understanding of what contributes to disease helps improve adherence to lifestyle changes. I like the continuity of care and building of long-term relationships.”
When asked what the most rewarding part of practicing medicine is, Dr. Escanio shares “I enjoy the challenge of working with patients with multiple chronic conditions and explaining to them why they feel they way they do and discussing options to improve their health. It is rewarding to see them follow up, noting that they feel better with a better understanding of their health, and are more motivated to make changes to improve their health.”
Patients are most likely to seek out care from Dr. Escanio when they are suffering from chronic health issues.
“Oftentimes, patients have poor nutrition and lifestyle choices and need comprehensive care and education about improving their health by focusing on certain lifestyle changes.”
Overall, Dr. Escanio has high hopes for the Suffolk community.
“I hope to increase access to health care in the community of Suffolk and improve the health of the community. Evidence shows that access to primary care helps people live longer, healthier lives.”
Throughout the years, Dr. Escanio has served on yearly mission trips abroad that have taken her to Nicaragua, Thailand, Kenya and the Himalayas. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling and experiencing new cultures.
Learn about the primary care services we offer at Bon Secours.
