Why a Medical Mission Reminded Me of Everything That Matters in Medicine
A recent medical mission reminded Dr. Buencamino-Francisco of everything that matters in medicine — and why she practices it the way she does. Here's what she saw, what it reinforced, and what it means for her patients at Concierge Medicine of South Shore.
By Dr. Maria Clarinda Buencamino-Francisco, MD
Founder, Concierge Medicine of South Shore
Last updated: March 4, 2026
I recently returned from a trip that was part vacation, part something much bigger. While I was away, I had the privilege of participating in a medical mission, and it turned out to be one of the most profound experiences of my career. I want to share a bit about it with you, because it reminded me of some truths about healthcare that I carry into every patient visit, and that are at the very heart of why Concierge Medicine of South Shore exists.
First, though, I want to say thank you. Thank you for your patience and your understanding while I was away. The trust you place in me and in our practice is something I never take for granted, and coming back to my patients is always the best part of any time away.
What I Saw on the Ground
During the mission, I cared for people who face barriers to healthcare that most of us can barely imagine. I met patients who had gone years, sometimes their entire lives, without seeing a doctor. Not because they didn’t want to, but because there simply was no access. No clinic within reach, no affordable medications, no one to explain what their symptoms meant or how to manage a chronic condition.
Many of the people I treated were dealing with conditions that, in the US, we catch early through routine screenings and preventive care. But without access to those basic resources, small problems had become big ones. Treatable issues had gone untreated. And the lack of health education meant that many people didn’t even know that prevention was possible, or what it looked like.
It was humbling. And it was heartbreaking. But it was also deeply clarifying.
What This Experience Reinforced for Me
Seeing healthcare stripped down to its most essential form reminded me why I went into medicine in the first place: to help people truly. Not to rush through a 7-minute appointment. Not to check boxes on a chart. To listen. To understand the whole person sitting in front of me. To give them the time, attention, and answers they deserve.
That’s exactly what the concierge model allows me to do, and this trip made me appreciate it even more. The patients I saw on the mission needed someone to sit with them, explain what was happening in their bodies, and empower them with knowledge they’d never had access to before. And honestly? That’s not so different from what many women here at home are looking for, too.
So many women tell me they’ve felt dismissed, rushed, or unheard in traditional medical settings. They’ve been told their symptoms are “normal” or “just stress” without anyone taking the time to dig deeper. That’s a different kind of barrier to care, and it’s one I’m deeply committed to breaking down.
What This Means for You as My Patient
I came home from this mission with renewed energy and an even stronger sense of purpose. The experience reinforced everything I believe about how medicine should be practiced: with compassion, with time, and with a genuine focus on prevention and education.
At Concierge Medicine of South Shore, that’s what we do every day. We take the time to understand your health history, your concerns, and your goals. We don’t rush. We don’t dismiss. We partner with you to build a proactive plan that keeps you feeling your best, whether that’s navigating hormonal changes, staying on top of screenings, managing a chronic condition, or simply having a doctor who picks up the phone when you call.
Having access to excellent healthcare is a gift, and this trip reminded me never to lose sight of that. I am so grateful for this community and for the opportunity to care for each one of you with the attention and thoroughness you deserve.
Let’s Keep Taking Care of You
If it’s been a while since your last visit, or if there’s something you’ve been meaning to bring up, now is a wonderful time to schedule an appointment. I’m back, I’m energized, and I’m ready to continue this journey with you.
Thank you, as always, for your trust.
With gratitude,
Dr. Maria Clarinda Buencamino-Francisco, MD
Founder, Concierge Medicine of South Shore
