Austin Buffum was on a quest to take charge of his health by pursuing a healthcare team that provided personalized, comprehensive support.
The 77-year-old retiree had tried other concierge programs, but none offered the depth of care he was seeking. That all changed when he joined the Integrative Concierge Care program at the UCI Health Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute.
He appreciated their unique approach to healthcare where the team thoughtfully assesses the whole person to better understand the root causes of any health issues while incorporating both traditional and integrative medicine strategies to solve them.
“This is, by far, the best concierge program,” Buffum said.
A lifestyle-based approach
Buffum’s integrative concierge care physician, Ryan Herring, MD, MPH, is dual board-certified in preventive and lifestyle medicine.
“I prioritize a lifestyle-based approach for my patients. Going beyond simply managing symptoms, I work closely with them to identify underlying factors — such as nutrition, physical activity, stress and sleep — that impact overall well-being,” says Herring. “Then I help them build sustainable habits that support their long-term health goals.”
Buffum also has access to a variety of innovative services through the program including body composition analysis, personalized nutrition assessments, stress management techniques, health coaching, massage therapy, acupuncture and more.
“This proactive approach not only improves a person’s quality of life but also reduces the risk of chronic diseases, enabling them to thrive rather than just survive,” Herring says.
Coordinated care
Quick and personalized access to healthcare, with Herring at the helm, has been vital for Buffum.
When health issues arise, like the pneumonia he has experienced several times, Herring refers him to top specialists and stays actively involved in coordinating care.
This level of communication provided Buffum peace of mind throughout his recovery, knowing that everyone was on the same page.
“That was a key factor. He has been outstanding,” Buffum says.
Attentive access
Another profound difference for Buffum is the time Herring dedicates to his care. With a limited number of members, the Integrative Concierge Care program ensures that each person has access to extended appointments, same-day visits and 24/7 communication with their physician.
“I have never had a doctor spend as much time with me. Dr. Herring does not rush. I feel like I have his full attention for as long as I need it,” says Buffum.
And when he has an urgent question about his health, Herring is quick to respond to messages.
“If I need help, he sees that I get it,” Buffum says.
Buffum is confident in his decision to continue with the Integrative Concierge Care program.
“It far exceeds anything that I’ve experienced,” he says, a testament to the level of personalized, whole person care he was looking for and received.
To schedule your complimentary initial appointment with the Integrative Concierge Care program, call 949-386-5700.
