Mugabé Walker, MD, recently joined the internal medicine clinic at SLV Regional Medical Center. With fellowship training in geriatric medicine, a sub-specialty of internal medicine and family medicine that focuses on healthcare of older adults, he looks forward to practicing in the valley. "Geriatric specialized physicians approach care of older adults from an unique perspective," he said, "and I think that joining Amir Obbehat, MD, who is also a geriatrician, will create an opportunity to increase their quality of life in the San Luis Valley."

Building Lasting Relationships

Dr. Walker earned his Geriatric Fellowship from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center after completing his doctor of medicine at St. George's University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies, and his residency in Internal Medicine at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh.

From a young age, Dr. Walker said he wanted to become a doctor because he felt that medicine was the greatest way to help improve people's lives and get to know people in the community. "What I like most about being an Internist and a Geriatrician is that you can develop and nurture a lasting relationship with your patients," he said.

The draw to geriatric medicine was born out of his desire improve the care of older adults. "You have to evaluate older adult medical care from various facets. They have similar but unique needs compared to younger adults," he said. "Whether it is addressing frailty, dementia, or the health of the caregiver, it is the little changes that gain the biggest results."

A New Adventure Begins

The draw to work in Alamosa was due to family. "My wife always wanted to get to know this part of the country," he said. "We interviewed here and we loved it! We thought it to be an excellent place to start a family and have an adventure." Their first child is due in November.

Dr. Walker is now accepting new patients. Call 589-8003.