Over the course of his career, Dr. Philip Miller, a pediatrician with Neighborhood Health Center (NHC), estimates that he’s seen more than a quarter of a million patients.

Dr. Philip Miller

This year Dr. Miller celebrates ten years with NHC.

What’s the most rewarding part of his job? He says it’s being in a position to give people access to care when they need it.

Dr. Miller does his part to help patients navigate a broken health care system. “I think health care is a right. It defines who we are as a nation,” he explains. Dr. Miller says the fact that so many Americans lack adequate health insurance is more than an oversight, “It’s a blight on our nation.”

He acknowledges that while the system does work to a degree for some (those with coverage through their employer, for example), far too many Americans fall through the cracks. As far as he’s concerned, it’s a huge problem. That’s where NHC steps in, acting as a bridge to care for the underserved and vulnerable in our communities.

“I think health care is a right. It defines who we are as a nation.”

Dr. Miller works hard to try to improve his clients’ lives. He doesn’t hesitate to follow-up with his patients after hours. “If I’m concerned about something (important) I call them,” he says. “I’ll call them at night.”

“You just have to do your best.”

He acknowledges that patients aren’t always compliant. “People are human. You just have to do your best.” He finds it especially rewarding when a young patient does take his advice to heart.

Oftentimes it’s a simple behavior change like making the choice to stop drinking or to start eating a healthy breakfast that can make a big difference. And those changes can have a ripple effect, impacting the entire family unit. What prompted him to pursue a career in healthcare? “I chose to go into medicine to help people,” Dr. Miller explains, adding “I like what I do.”

Dr. Phillip Miller estimates that he’s seen more than a quarter of a million patients over the course of his career.

Thank you to Dr. Miller and to all the providers who work hard to serve our community’s most vulnerable. We’re so grateful for the care and dedication you bring to your role each and every day.