*Please note: Circle Medical is unable to see patients who are on a Medicaid or MediCal insurance plan, as it could result in you losing your insurance coverage. If after booking with us it is found that you have a plan that is part of Medicaid or MediCal, your appointment will be cancelled.* Dr. Ixchel Alvarez is proud to be a member of Circle Medical, a digital-first, patient-focused experience that makes quality care more accessible than ever. What makes you passionate about being a healthcare provider? “I really enjoy being an integral part of each individual patient’s journey to health. In order to function properly, the body needs a healthy balance between mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Professionally, nothing brings more joy than to see my patients achieve harmony in these three pillars because this is when health can be optimized best.” In your opinion, what should be the role of a primary care provider for a patient, taking into account both physical health and behavioral health needs? "In my opinion, the role of a primary care provider is to understand each patient’s individual needs and barriers to care in order to optimize their overall wellbeing. This requires actively listening to what patients are saying in order to understand individual goals and develop realistic plans that the provider can help them achieve." Tell us a little bit about yourself. What do you like to do in your spare time? "I love to run, play soccer, practice yoga, be in nature, paint with oils and play with my dog. This past year, I’ve started gardening and completed my first landscape project. I also enjoy reading books of all kinds; currently, I am finishing “Klara and the Sun” by Kazuo Ishiguro."