Q&A with Coplin Health Systems’ Newest Primary Care Physician, Dr. Richard Cain

Richard Cain, M.D., who has recently joined Coplin Health Systems’ primary care team at River Valley Family Care in Ravenswood, W.Va., believes in helping patients in any way he can. As a proponent of preventative medicine, he also wants them to understand they have the power and ability to live healthier lives through their lifestyle choices and decisions.

A Marshall University School of Medicine graduate, Dr. Cain has practiced in northcentral and western West Virginia and eastern Ohio his entire career—a professional journey that’s never taken him too far from his hometown of Grantsville, W.Va.

We sat down with Dr. Cain to learn more about his approach to providing care, what he enjoys most about his job, and his surprising taste in music.

Q: What led you to pursue a career in medicine?

Richard Cain: I was exposed to science and medicine from an early age by my mother and father. They really instilled in me the desire to help people.

Q: What types of services will you provide at Coplin Health Systems?

RC: As a primary care physician, I will focus on the general areas that are the most common reasons people seek care. That includes chronic disease management, health maintenance, sick visits, and wellness visits.

Q: What do you do beyond what most people might see?

RC: I invest time in my continuing education. That includes discussing cases and treatment options with specialists. I also spend a lot of time advocating for my patients, whether that means securing referrals to specialists or trying to get treatments approved so their care can be more affordable.

Q: If you could share one piece of health advice, what would it be?

RC: Exercise regularly. Talk to your healthcare provider about what type and frequency of exercise will be right for you. Of course, any amount of exercise can help, but there are ways to maximize the benefits. Your provider can help you with that.

Q: What are some common misconceptions about your job?

RC: Some people think that once the office visit’s over, the provider’s job is done. That’s not the case. We have people in our practice working behind the scenes every day to get approvals and call in orders and prescriptions. They also are committed to studying to stay current on the latest research on illnesses and treatments.

Q: What’s the most enjoyable part of your job?

RC: I love helping people feel better. That said, I realize most chronic illnesses can’t be cured. But I like to do what I can to help ease the burden of these illnesses on patients and their families.

Q: What might surprise people to know about you?

RC: I like both disco and bluegrass music.

Q: What are your professional interests?

RC: As a physician, I treat people. I’m also interested in reinforcing that they can lead healthier lives through their actions and choices. I believe preventative medication is very important. Vaccinations are also foundational for good health and avoiding preventable diseases. And, of course, I reinforce that exercise, eating right, and a proper attitude are keys to good health.

Q: Tell us one fun fact about yourself.

RC: As a native West Virginian, I’m proud to be a Golden Horseshoe recipient for my knowledge of the state’s history.

For more information about River Valley Family Care or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Cain, call 404-273-1033.