Alice Chen, DO
What’s the most rewarding part of being a doctor for Alice Chen, DO? Using an osteopathic approach to treat patients—mind, body and spirit. It’s a philosophy she fell in love with even before starting medical school, and it guides her work with patients each day. As a specialist in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine/Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine, Dr. Chen studies the relationship between the body’s structure and function and uses osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to treat her patients daily.
Why did you choose osteopathic medicine?
When I was an undergrad at UCLA, I opened a health professions book at the career center and landed on an entry about osteopathic medicine. The whole-person approach really resonated with me. Studying osteopathic medicine opened my eyes to a whole new way of thinking about health and disease. It’s changed the way I live and interact with the world around me.
What do you love about being a doctor?
As a DO, I’ve witnessed the incredible healing ability of the human body. I love being able to apply my knowledge of anatomy and physiology to help patients feel their best.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
The only constant in this world is change. Accepting this fact has helped me become more mindful, let go of grudges and truly live in the moment. The only thing we have is the present, and that’s a gift.
What makes you laugh?
Nerdy medical jokes! Like this one.
Attending: What’s the status on that patient who swallowed all the quarters?
Resident: Still no change!
What are you most proud of?
My parents both immigrated to this country in search of better opportunities. Their struggle for the American dream helped inspire me to reach my goals. I’m the first in my family to earn a bachelor’s degree in the U.S. and the first to complete medical school.