LARNED — The new physician at Heart of Kansas Family Health Care in Larned offers the entire gamut of family-medicine services while focusing on functional medicine to treat the whole person.
Richard Aballay, MD, cares for patients of all ages and will serve Heart of Kansas satellite clinics in Stafford and St. John when needed.
“I zero in on functional medicine because it concentrates on the root causes of illness,” Dr. Aballay said. “We examine how the body’s systems work together, rather than simply treating symptoms.
“This approach moves beyond ‘a pill for every ill’ through a personalized plan that considers the complex interactions between hormones, the immune system and how stress impacts these systems.”
Dr. Aballay also helps patients manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, empowering them to be proactive about their health care.
He noted that “education is at the heart of what I do. I emphasize prevention by addressing lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, sleep and stress management, which are often the causes of chronic conditions.”
This continuity of care is the reason everyone should consider seeing a family doctor on a regular basis, Dr. Aballay suggested.
“Patients need someone who knows their medical history, understands their needs and coordinates care across all stages of life,” he explained. “Family medicine focuses on long-term health; it is not just about fixing problems.”
Dr. Aballay’s first impressions of Heart of Kansas “have been fantastic. The team is incredibly welcoming, professional and focused on patient-centered care.
“Our facilities are well-equipped and it is clear the staff takes pride in delivering comprehensive healthcare services. This is a supportive environment that fosters collaboration.”
Dr. Aballay added that he chose Heart of Kansas because it provides accessible care for the community and “its mission aligns perfectly with my passion for helping people live healthier lives.”
Background
Originally from the South Bronx, Dr. Aballay earned a bachelor’s degree in health promotion from Brigham Young University, Provo, UT in 1999 and graduated from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY in 2005.
Additional training includes studies in naturopathic medicine and integrative approaches under Dr. Andrew Weil, and at Bastyr University in Seattle, WA. He also has medical-director experience in rural health clinics, hospitals and correctional facilities.
Career highlights include more than 15 years in family medicine, emergency care, pain management and hospitalist roles. Dr. Aballay also has served as chief medical officer at multiple organizations, while developing protocols and opening new clinics.
He has an extensive locum-tenens background, managing high-volume patient care in underserved and rural areas, as well as teaching experience as an associate professor for medical students.
“I am drawn to the warmth and strong sense of community here,” Dr. Aballay commented. “I am eager to build connections with local and area residents.”
Brett Middleton, Heart of Kansas chief executive officer, said “As anyone can tell from Dr. Aballay’s experience and background, we are very fortunate that he is on our team. He genuinely cares for his patients and their families, and brings a wealth of knowledge and a caring heart to his new position.”
Heart of Kansas Family Health Care is a Federally Qualified Health Center, which allows it to be a safety net for patients who are uninsured or underinsured. Its professional providers also welcome those with insurance at the Great Bend, Larned and Stafford locations. Heart of Kansas is open to everyone.