At TrueCare Ramona, providing high-quality, compassionate care to everyone, regardless of income or insurance status, is more than just a mission. It’s a personal calling. For Jody Reifenberger, a Physician Assistant (PA) who has served the Ramona community for over 11 years, that mission is what fuels her passion every day.
“I personally believe that everybody should have access to high-quality, evidence-based medicine, regardless of your ability to pay for premium health insurance or social status,” Reifenberger explained. “The reality is everyone benefits from this type of care. Providing care to all people, especially preventative care, helps to elevate our society,” she said.
This belief isn’t just theoretical. It lives daily at TrueCare, where Reifenberger and her colleagues provide preventative and primary care to families who might otherwise go without. She sees firsthand how early intervention and accessible health services can ripple out into healthier families and stronger communities.
What Is It Like to Be a Long-Term Provider at TrueCare Ramona?
Jody Reifenberger’s longevity at TrueCare reflects not only her commitment but also the trust she’s built with generations of patients.
“I have lots of patients that have been with me ever since I started here,” Reifenberger shared. “There are a lot of generational families that come to our clinic. I’ll see a mom one week, her kids the next, and then maybe her own mother the week after,” she said.
That continuity of care speaks volumes about the bond between provider and patient. It also highlights what makes TrueCare unique: a family-centered approach grounded in respect, relationships, and consistency.
Related Article: Meet the TrueCare Staff: Jeremy Lutz, Director of Enterprise Analytics
How Does TrueCare Build Strong Relationships with Families?
TrueCare’s model of care fosters trust that lasts through life’s stages. Whether treating a toddler or a grandparent, providers like Reifenberger offer consistency, empathy, and evidence-based support that patients can count on.
This multi-generational trust isn’t just rare; it’s vital. It creates a care environment where patients feel seen, heard, and understood.
Related Article: Meet the TrueCare Staff: Phylis Mason, Clinical Nurse Manager II
How Is TrueCare Involved in the Ramona Community?
Beyond the clinic walls, Reifenberger is proud of TrueCare’s active role in the Ramona community.
“TrueCare is very community-minded,” Reifenberger said with pride. “With health fairs and other activities, we are definitely active in the community,” she elaborated.
From hosting health education events to participating in local outreach efforts, TrueCare doesn’t just serve the community; it’s part of it. This holistic, grassroots involvement helps meet people where they are, breaking down barriers to care and fostering trust.
“Our entire medical staff is very community-minded,” added Reifenberger. “We just want to help people, and we care about people. I think it’s really important to contribute to the community that you live in and care about others around you because we are a better society when we all work together. That’s part of TrueCare’s mission,” she said.
Related Article: Meet the TrueCare Staff: Magdalena Lopez, Medical Assistant
What Surprises New Patients About Care at TrueCare?
For many new patients, a visit to TrueCare is unexpectedly positive.
“They’re surprised at the level of care they get here,” Reifenberger said. “They walk away saying, ‘Wow, I had a really great visit.’ They don’t expect the clinician to be so knowledgeable or for us to have excellent technology,” she explained.
That “wow” factor is no accident.
TrueCare invests in the tools, training, and infrastructure that empower providers like Reifenberger to do their best work. Whether it’s cutting-edge electronic health records or upgraded diagnostic tools, the technology supports a patient-first model of care.
Related Article: Meet the TrueCare Providers: Kelsey Carrio, MD
What Wraparound Services Does TrueCare Offer to Support Patients?
Reifenberger also emphasizes TrueCare’s wraparound services, which go beyond the exam room.
“We are able to give wraparound services for patients, such as community resources, behavioral health, SmartCare, and WIC,” Reifenberger explained. “We can print out resources for housing, food, and other basic needs, too,” she added.
With behavioral health therapists and the SmartCare program embedded onsite, Reifenberger can also seamlessly connect patients with mental health support and social services. That warm handoff is critical, especially for patients facing complex challenges.
“It makes a huge difference to have someone you can hand that patient off to and then collaborate afterward to follow up on what else they need,” Reifenberger said. “It ensures they get the holistic care they need and deserve,” she explained.
Related Article: Meet the TrueCare Providers: Chanelle Calhoun, MD
How Does TrueCare Support Providers Behind the Scenes?
Behind the scenes, Reifenberger credits TrueCare’s leadership and team culture for making meaningful care possible.
“I think the administration really supports the providers here,” said Reifenberger. “They listen. We didn’t used to have provider admin time, but I advocated for it, and now we do. That’s been a game changer for work-life balance,” she elaborated.
“And it’s such a collaborative environment. We bounce ideas off each other and talk through patient cases. It really helps when you’re seeing complex patients,” said Reifenberger.
That internal support system allows Reifenberger to focus on what she loves most: caring for people.
“I’ve been a PA for 20 years, and I just love it. I couldn’t picture myself doing anything else,” Reifenberger beamed.
Is a Career at TrueCare Right for Mission-Driven Medical Professionals?
If you are a medical professional considering a career in community health, Reifenberger was more than happy to offer you some advice.
“If you really love people and are committed to serving others, a community health center like TrueCare is a great place to be,” Reifenberger said. “Yes, our patients can be complicated, but that’s why the work is so important. You need a passion for people, but if you have it, the impact you can make here is huge, and the sense of fulfillment you will experience will dwarf everything else. I promise you,” she smiled.
Are You Inspired By Jody Reifenberger’s Story? Apply Today to Make a Difference in Community Health!
If Jody Reifenberger’s story resonates with you, and you’re passionate about equity in health care, driven by purpose, and eager to serve a close-knit community, TrueCare Ramona could be the place where your calling meets fulfillment and purpose. Join a team that values collaboration, invests in your growth, and empowers you to deliver compassionate, high-quality care to those who need it most.
Apply today and start making a difference where it truly matters.