“I used to joke that I wished there was a pediatric/OB specialty because that’s what I wanted to do. Dr. [Dave] Freeman told me, ‘That’s family medicine!’ Of course, he was right, so that’s what I decided to do.” After receiving her medical degree from the University of Minnesota, and completing her family medicine residency in Maplewood, the decision to begin her practice at Lakewood Health System was an easy one for Dr. Adrianne Moen.
Having been a Rural Physician Associate Program (RPAP) student at Lakewood in 2012, Dr. Moen not only became familiar with the family medicine specialty, but also with Lakewood, its providers, staff, and patients. “I feel like the providers and patients here are family because I’ve gotten to know everyone so well; it’s kind of like I’m coming home. In a lot of facilities, family practice physicians are only in clinic, and I love the diversity and opportunity at Lakewood because you can do a little bit of everything.”
“I was drawn to family medicine because it involves so many aspects of care, from OB and pediatrics, to chronic disease management, and you get the opportunity to create lasting bonds with your patients. You are part of their joys, sorrows, and every day struggles, all of which are the most rewarding interactions. I also love the instant gratification of some procedural treatments, as well as those ‘small successes’ you often get when working with a patient.”
“I really strive to be up on the latest evidence-based practices, and work with patients and my fellow providers on a plan we’re comfortable with. I want to work with patients to build trusting relationships, so I try to be flexible and understanding of them, and their needs and concerns, while doing what’s best for their health.”
Originally from the Brainerd area, Dr. Moen, her husband, Scott, and their two sons, ages five and one, have spent the past 10 years in larger cities, and were more than happy to return to a more rural area. “We love everything this area has to offer as far as small-town living and the outdoors because we love fishing, camping and downhill skiing. We’re happy to be back in the area, close to family, and we’re not leaving!”
Dr. Moen sees patients in Lakewood’s Motley and Staples clinics. To schedule an appointment with her, call 218-894-1515.