According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, Dr. Mistee Richardson, board-certified in family medicine and practicing with Providence Medical Group-Family Medical Group, is among the 16 percent of family physicians who deliver babies in the United States.
At Providence Medical Center, Dr. Richardson is one of only two—her medical partner, Dr. Michael Parra, also delivers babies at the hospital. All other deliveries are performed by physicians specializing in obstetrics.
Dr. Richardson, who has two sons, ages 11 and 9, says she decided to become a physician following the birth of her oldest son.
“The births of my children were two of the most important events in my life,” she said. “Based on my own experience, I felt I could empathize with my patients, listen to them, and provide them with a great experience.”
Though she contemplated specializing in obstetrics, Dr. Richardson decided on family medicine because of the broad range of care she could offer.
“What I love about family medicine is that I see a wide variety of patients, and I have the opportunity to care for them even before they are born,” she said. “I feel like it’s a real honor and a blessing to be part of such an important event in my patients’ lives.”
An added perk for women seeing Dr. Richardson is the comprehensive nature of the care she offers.
“I provide prenatal care for my patients, deliver their babies, then can continue caring for the moms and their babies after delivery,” she said. “There’s no need to find another doctor. I can address both mom’s and baby’s needs.”
Dr. Richardson delivers patients at Providence who are planning a vaginal birth. Patients requiring a Cesarean section are referred to an obstetrician.
“Providence offers a wonderful patient-centered experience close to home,” Dr. Richardson said.
Because of her extensive training in family medicine, Dr. Richardson also is qualified to treat most illnesses and provide comprehensive health care for people of all ages and genders – from prenatal to seniors.
Dr. Richardson’s roots are in Kansas, where she lives and works. She is a graduate of the University of Kansas School of Medicine. She performed her residency in family medicine at Research Medical Center, Kansas City, Mo. She is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians. Dr. Richardson also serves as a physician in the National Guard, Kansas Medical Detachment.
– Story from Providence Medical Center