Healthcare often leaves room for little personal continuity, especially when a practitioner transitions between practices. But some connections defy those barriers and speak to the depth of trust and empathy a provider can inspire. Our physician assistant, Kristin Tracy, shares one such story of reconnecting with a former patient—a young person she met years ago in her primary care days. The patient had been adopted by an American family and came to Kristin for regular care, trusting her to handle personal needs, including essential legal paperwork accompanying their journey.

When Kristin moved into a solely inpatient role, this patient was understandably disheartened. According to the patient’s guardian, they kept Kristin in their thoughts, hoping to reconnect someday. Social media offered a way to stay loosely in touch, but it wasn’t the same. When Kristin joined us at Health Path Clinics, the guardian eagerly reached out, proclaiming, “My prayers have been answered!”

Kristin’s return to outpatient care allowed her to pick up where they left off. Moreover rekindling a patient-provider bond founded on empathy, respect, and mutual care.