Dr. Stephenson Now Seeing Patients at HealthWest Clinic
Published: July 11, 2017His passion for science, a favorite television show and a life-changing moment in high school guided Dr. Shane Stephenson toward medicine.
Hailing from St. Louis, Dr. Stephenson has joined the family medicine clinic at Methodist Physicians Clinic HealthWest.
After being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, Dr. Stephenson’s father passed away at the age of 46. The experience shaped his future.
“My Dad didn’t go to the doctor because he was afraid they would tell him something was wrong,” Dr. Stephenson said. “As a physician myself, I certainly don’t want my patients to feel that way. We are there for prevention and wellness. Yes, I may find something wrong, but we will find solutions and work through those together.”
Having been through a difficult health experience with his family, he saw how challenging it can be for all involved. That was one reason he chose family medicine.
“You see the effects of medicine and how a difficult diagnosis doesn’t just impact the patient,” he said. “The patient, their significant other and family members are going through something as well. Such situations can be hard to navigate and as a family medicine physician I can have a role in helping families through those times.”
St. Louis, Mo., was the setting for Dr. Stephenson’s educational training. He earned his bachelor’s from Saint Louis University and his medical degree from Saint Louis University School of Medicine.
His residency training was completed at Mercy Medical Center in St. Louis.
“Listening is a great skill to have. It’s important to allow them the opportunity to speak, which gives me insight as to what else might be happening in their life,” Dr. Stephenson said. “Letting them tell their story – allows me the time to come up with a better diagnosis and treatment. If they know you really care – the more open they will be – which allows me to take better care of them.”
Dr. Stephenson is now seeing patients at Methodist Physicians Clinic HealthWest (16120 W. Dodge Road). Appointments can be made by calling 402-354-0610.