Meet the Top Doctors: Dr. Oren G. Townsend, M.D.

Every year, we ask a few of Seattle’s Top Doctors what led them to medicine, what they wish patients knew, and how healthcare is changing. These interviews are part of Seattle magazine’s annual Top Doctors feature, created with Castle Connolly. None of the doctors paid to be included—all are nominated by their peers.

What led you into a career in medicine?

I chose a career in medicine to help other people overcome healthcare hurdles and obstacles, while trying to ease suffering, worry, and anxiety along the way. Physicians and their clinic staff often create and foster emotional connections that are deep and lasting. I knew from a very young age that healthcare was going to be my career path. I enjoy the constant learning, critical thinking, and analytical work that are required. Medicine demands continuous adaptation to new scientific discoveries and technologies, even computer software, and now, artificial intelligence (AI).

What is the most difficult part of your job?

Navigating different health insurances, the array of benefits, prior authorizations, as well as the leverage and control that health insurance companies wield over providing appropriate health care to each individual patient.

What is one piece of advice you wish every patient would follow?

Exercise on a regular basis. It is critical to overall health, well-being, and longevity.

What is your advice for people interested in longevity?

Longevity is not a new phenomenon. A desire to beat the odds is deeply rooted in the human psyche. Each of us will seek various strategies with varying degrees of research, science, and success. In my opinion, longevity is rooted in foundational elements: healthy eating, regular exercise, good sleep habits, maintenance of healthy fitness and wellness practices, and genetics—while avoiding nicotine, drugs, and excessive amounts of alcohol.

What is the biggest mistake or misconception people have about doctors?

A physician’s opinion is not always the final word. Too often, health insurance companies and pharmacies can override a physician’s opinion on the best way to provide care to an individual patient. Similarly, a physician’s opinion is no longer always able to provide a patient access to a specialty practice or obtain an earlier appointment for referrals to specialty care.

Have you ever had someone correctly diagnose themselves?

All of us are curious about ourselves and life in general. It is natural for each of us to sort through symptoms to try and arrive at a thoughtful diagnosis, even before arriving at a physician’s office. Curiosity and logical reasoning should be encouraged and empower each of us to become the best possible patient, as well as an advocate for our individual health and wellness.

How has technology changed your field since you entered the profession?

Healthcare and technology have always coexisted. Technology is essential for optimal healthcare delivery, whether X-rays, MRI, laboratory testing, robotic-assisted surgery, vaccinations, oncology pharmaceuticals, electronic health records, and AI. Technology must be a partner for optimal healthcare delivery.

If you could change one thing about the healthcare system, what would it be?

I would simplify and reduce healthcare costs, as well as insurance obstacles (e.g., denials, prior authorizations, formulary prescription denials, etc.).

What is your most important personal healthy habit?

I walk to and from work daily and have been lucky to do so for nearly 15 years. I enjoy feeling the weather against my skin. It helps reset my mind for the hours ahead, whether to gear up for work or unwind and reset for relaxation at home.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I enjoy connecting with every person and fostering an ongoing relationship with each patient I encounter by learning about their life, family, pets, ambitions, motivations, and achievements.