As a young child, a visit to the doctor instilled in Dr. David Helland that this was something important.
“I didn't know much about doctors, but I was excited to meet this individual who my mom had told me was going to help fix me," he said. “I had to wait what seemed like an eternity, but eventually was called to see the doctor and was fascinated seeing him standing there in his white lab coat."
That experience drove him to later pursue nursing and he worked in the nursing field for several years.
“It was the inspiration of some of the physicians I worked with who inspired me to go back to medical school to become a physician," he said. “I saw the role that family medicine doctors played in the communities I worked in. I realized that was what was next for me and become really excited about what I was doing."
Dr. Helland received his medical degree from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He completed a residency in family practice at Eau Claire Family Medicine Clinic in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. He is board certified in family medicine.
He sees patients for routine preventive exams, common illnesses and injuries and helps manage chronic conditions. He has a special interest in geriatric care and complex illnesses or care.
“I really enjoy the variety of family medicine and the relationship I can form with my patients over time. I also appreciate the fact I can get to know their families, too," he said.
As a provider, he wants to personalize his care and time spent with his patients.
“I don't focus my attention on a computer," he said. “I sit down with the patient and do most of my notes or research outside of the room."
He also talks to his patients at a level that doesn't intimidate them.
“I talk to them like they're my neighbors or my friends," he said. “Their care is also about mutual decision making. I want them to understand why I am prescribing them something or why I'm recommending lab work. I want to make it clear how my suggestions impact their plan of care and why it's important."
Outside of the clinic, the majority Dr. Helland's time is focused on his family, including grandchildren. He also spends a lot of time outdoors fishing and boating. He also enjoys building things, like furniture and wooden model ships, and restores old vehicles.