Dr. Claribel Jimenez on Finding Purpose & Family at TrueCare

For Dr. Claribel Jimenez, a chiropractor serving the Encinitas and Perris health centers, her career at TrueCare is the realization of a lifelong dream, one that literally brought her back to where she began. Dr. Jimenez grew up as a patient of TrueCare, formerly known as North County Health Services. Now, as a provider, she sees her younger self in every patient who walks through the door. This full-circle experience fuels her passion for community health care and instills every day on the job with unimaginable fulfillment.

Keep reading to learn more about Dr. Jiminez’s story in her own words!

[H2] A Full Circle Career: Dr. Claribel Jimenez on Finding Purpose and Family at TrueCare

Dr. Claribel Jimenez’s personal journey is what defines her approach to community health care. It’s a role that transcends providing treatment.

For Dr. Jimenez, it’s about fostering trust and cultural understanding, particularly for patients who have historically faced barriers to quality care. Her deep connection to the people she serves makes her a vital advocate for health equity within the TrueCare family.

“TrueCare is an amazing company. They care about their employees, and I would definitely recommend anyone who is looking for a job in the medical industry to come to TrueCare because we all care for each other, we’re all there for each other, and they care about you as a person, not just an employee. That’s truly special,” said Dr. Jimenez.

[H3] What’s a TrueCare Value that Aligns with You and Your Work?

Dr. Jimenez started the conversation by reflecting on the values that define TrueCare and the work she does with the organization.

“What really resonates with me the most is treating our patients to the fullest, treating them with respect, and giving them the care they need every time they come here. It’s really just about giving them my best every time they come, no matter what day it is, because that’s what each patient deserves,” said Dr. Jimenez.

Dr. Jimenez said she loves giving her patients a safe and comfortable space, too, especially as someone who is bilingual. Being able to speak Spanish adds an invaluable level of comfort and security for her patients.

“I really enjoy knowing my patients are comfortable coming to see me and that I will be able to communicate with them and understand their pain and concerns, and what they want and need from us as providers. Sometimes that language barrier is really hard for patients, and they don’t always end up being able to communicate everything they feel, so they don’t get the care they deserve and need. When you speak their language, it’s a lot easier, and they get that comfort from you. That’s one of the biggest differences you can make in their lives – providing them with a safe space,” said Dr. Jimenez.

[H3] What Does it Feel Like to Serve Your Own Community?

Dr. Jimenez’s background as a Hispanic patient, she re-emphasized, deeply informs the compassionate and culturally sensitive care she provides today – she says that she sees herself in her patients, and that makes the work all the more meaningful.

For many of her patients, especially those who are low-income or face language barriers, visiting a community health center is the most crucial step they can take toward well-being.

Her commitment to serving the underserved stems from her personal belief in the power of community health and the fundamental right to quality health care. For her, working at TrueCare is far more fulfilling than her previous experience in private practice.

[H3] What’s it Like Working at TrueCare?

Dr. Jimenez is fast approaching her second-year anniversary, a milestone we’re thrilled to celebrate with her, and she was happy to share her experience thus far. She feels immense pride coming into work every day because she knows firsthand the impact their care has.

“Honestly, my milestone of being here almost two years is crazy to me – it feels like it happened in the blink of an eye. I can’t even believe I’ve been here that long, but I am proud to say I work for Truecare. It’s just the most amazing company, and I grew up coming to TrueCare when it was North County,” said Dr. Jimenez.

Dr. Jimenez expanded on what it means to see herself reflected in her patients.

“So, when I was younger, I came here to get all my shots as a baby, and then having a full-circle moment and being a provider now, it’s like I see myself in every patient that comes in. They’re struggling, they’re having pain, and they need help. They might be low-income, and we deal with all kinds of ethnicities and races, so it’s just amazing to see how, growing up, I went here and felt the difference they make, and now I’m helping make that difference. I see myself in every patient that comes in because I grew up here, I’m Hispanic, and a lot of our patients are Hispanic. It just reminds me of when I used to come with my parents,” smiled Dr. Jimenez.

Dr. Jimenez compared her time spent in a private practice with her time at TrueCare, offering advice to those who might be interested in entering community health.

“It’s different, but it’s so rewarding. It’s rewarding when you’re in a private practice, but you’re seeing a different population of patients. Here, you see more of the people who can’t afford chiropractic or don’t even know about it. It’s really fulfilling to educate them. There are so many people who need your help, underprivileged people who can’t afford it, and are grateful that you are there. It’s incredible,” said Dr. Jimenez.

Regardless of which location you work at, Encinitas or Perris, Dr. Jimenez offered some reassurance that both are equally awesome.

“They treat patients beautifully and with respect, so it’s just nice to be around that, honestly. Perris has a really uplifting team and atmosphere, and they always have potlucks. I’m always saying, ‘I’m going to gain weight working here,’ and the same thing with Encinitas. They’re really welcoming and always have potlucks, too. They really go above and beyond to come up with ideas to celebrate – like Cookie Day, Cupcake Day, Salad Bar Day, or something like that. It’s always nice to be around that,” smiled Dr. Jimenez.

[H3] How Does TrueCare Foster Professional Growth for Providers?

Dr. Jimenez’s passion for chiropractic began when she received her first adjustment at age 16, after which she described being “on cloud nine.” This moment would prove to be an experience that immediately set her on a path to serve others.

That passion for learning hasn’t faded; at TrueCare, it’s supported by a robust culture of collaboration and continuous education. Unlike the “lone survivor” feeling of private practice, Dr. Jimenez enjoys the integration and support of her colleagues.

“When you have a team of other chiropractors, you can bounce off ideas, or if you have a question about something, you know, you can ask someone else who is in the same training as you. Iron sharpens iron – you help each other grow and improve,” Dr. Jimenez noted.

Dr. Jimenez noted specifically how important the support of her team is.

“I have a great team at both locations in Encinitas and in Perris. They are always so bright and positive every day, and when I’m feeling tired and exhausted from a long day, they’re always like, ‘You got this. The day is almost done. It’s midweek, or it’s Friday.’ I have this coworker in Perris, Judith, and she’s always smiling and happy. It brightens my day every time I see her. That’s an underrated aspect of growth – developing resilience through the support of your team,” shared Dr. Jimenez.

The entire chiropractic team holds regular meetings to share knowledge and discuss treatment techniques, ensuring all providers are equipped with the best possible skills. This is driven by the philosophy that you are always a student.

“Life is about constantly learning. You’re always a student, and there’s always something to learn. I’ve been in practice for almost 12 years, and I know I’ve learned a lot along the way. I’m always eager to teach others, too. I feel like what I’ve learned and discovered throughout my time as a chiropractor benefits everybody,” said Dr. Jimenez.

[H3] What Does it Mean to Show up Authentically at Work?

The foundation of TrueCare’s culture is a commitment to seeing and valuing every employee as an individual. Dr. Jimenez immediately felt this upon joining the organization.

“The onboarding experience here at TrueCare is amazing. I was very shocked to see how welcoming they are. It just felt like, ‘Okay, I’m in the right place,’ because of how the energy felt when coming into TrueCare,” remembered Dr. Jimenez fondly.

Dr. Jimenez also said that the vibe at TrueCare is truly like one big family, which makes everyone comfortable bringing their whole selves to work.

“It’s literally like a family at TrueCare. All the employees are like family, and we’re here for each other. We care about what you like and don’t like. And at some locations, they’ll ask about your birthday and what you like or don’t like, and then give you a basket just to celebrate you and who you are. That means a lot. Everyone really cares about you, who you are, and how authentically yourself you can be here,” said Dr. Jimenez.

As for what makes her feel at home with TrueCare? She was quick to give the team she works with props.

“What makes me feel at home here with everybody else is the fact that we’re all working toward the same goal – we are all here to help our patients and give them the care they need. We’re also friendly and welcoming, and every patient tells me the same thing, ‘Oh, you guys are awesome and welcoming. All the doctors are great.’ That means a lot to me and lets me know I’m where I need to be,” said Dr. Jimenez.

When asked what advice she’d give a candidate interviewing at TrueCare, Dr. Jimenez’s answer was simple: be you.

“Be yourself. Always be yourself because we are all different in different ways, but if you try to be a cookie-cutter, you won’t stand out. You have to stand out as who you are, not as who you think they want you to be,” Dr. Jimenez advised.

[H2] Are You Inspired by the Words of Dr. Claribel Jimenez? Start a Rewarding Chiropractic Career in Community Health Care!

Dr. Claribel Jimenez’s experience shows that a career at TrueCare is a path to finding deep professional fulfillment. It’s a place where you can practice authentic, patient-focused care, grow your skills through collaboration, and feel truly supported by a team that feels like family. If you are seeking a mission-driven role in a community health center that values you as a person and your commitment to health equity, TrueCare is the place for you.

“It means a lot to just be here and treat my patients – having this kind of full-circle moment in my career and joining this team gives me a great, warm feeling inside. You know you’re making a difference every day. You can’t say that with other jobs,” said Dr. Jimenez.

Explore open positions to find your professional calling with TrueCare.

A Full Circle Career: Dr. Claribel Jimenez on Finding Purpose and Family at TrueCare