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Capstone Family Medicine, located throughout Alaska, is dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality family health care to communities across the state. The clinic’s network includes a wide range of specialists and providers, including physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners. With multiple locations and specialty clinics—such as urgent care, dermatology, endocrinology, and optometry—Capstone offers patients access to diverse and coordinated care.
This summer, I had the privilege of interning, shadowing, and learning from many of the talented professionals at Capstone Family Medicine—an experience that deepened both my knowledge and my passion for the medical field. I was able to observe a wide variety of patient care, from wellness exams and acute visits to surgical procedures and follow-up appointments. The cases I encountered ranged from common cold symptoms to mental health concerns, as well as medication management for chronic illness. Beyond clinical experiences, I learned directly from providers about the unique paths that led them to their careers in medicine, and I gained new perspective on the business side of health care, including how innovations such as AI are beginning to shape medical charting.
Additionally, as part of my internship, I had the opportunity to shadow in several specialty clinics outside of the Capstone network, including Ptarmigan Pediatrics, Empower Physical Therapy, and the ConocoPhillips Alpine Health Center. I am deeply grateful for the time each provider dedicated to sharing their knowledge and perspective on medicine. I would especially like to thank Dr. Wade Erickson, M.D. of Capstone Family Medicine, who coordinated the entirety of my internship and connected me with an expansive network of medical providers. These experiences not only broadened my understanding of the field but also helped guide my interests for the future, giving me both inspiration and a clearer picture of the dedication it takes to pursue a career in health care.