Provider Spotlight: Erin L. Maxfield, DO
Erin L. Maxfield, DO, family medicine and primary care physician at BMC Brighton Primary Care at 11 Nevins Street
Erin L. Maxfield, DO, is a family medicine physician, board-certified in both family and addiction medicine, who specializes in primary care. She is passionate about breaking down complex health topics in an easy to understand way. Her goal is to make sure everyone feels comfortable talking about their own health and treatment plan.
Dr. Maxfield earned her medical degree, a doctorate in osteopathic medicine (DO), from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her residency at Our Lady of Lourdes Memorial Hospital in Binghamton, New York, and went on to pursue a postdoctoral fellowship at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. She also has a strong background in research and neuropathology, which focuses on diseases affecting the nervous system. She is passionate about applying this expertise to support patients navigate multiple pathological changes.
In her free time, Dr. Maxfield volunteers on the Massachusetts Medical Society Committee on Mental Health and Substance Use. Her end goal is to change legislation in Massachusetts so that addiction medicine is more embedded into primary care.
Why did you choose to specialize in family medicine?
Family medicine objectively is very challenging, due to the wide range of knowledge that is required to be successful. Being precise and up-to-date in the research is essential. Not only do I find the challenge of knowing a wide range of knowledge engaging; there are other challenges that also keep things interesting, such as forming a diagnosis from general symptoms.
What inspired you to also specialize in addiction care?
Due to historic stigma, diseases of the brain have been inappropriately considered separate from physical ailments, and patients have suffered. I saw how historical systemic prejudice, including from the medical community, added to the oppression of those with substance use disorder (SUD) and worsened patient outcomes.
Family medicine itself is already well-positioned to treat the physical and mental health effects of adversity. In establishing ongoing physician–patient relationships with individuals with substance use disorder, and witnessing the resilience of individuals who have overcome great adversity in their lives, I was inspired to further specialize in addiction medicine to help meet patients where they are.
How would you describe your philosophy/approach to medicine?
I practice nonjudgmental, evidence-based medicine and try to partner with the patient, who is an integral member of their own healthcare team. I really like breaking down complex problems and situations for patients in ways that they can understand. A lot of times, when people go to the doctor, they don’t really have a good understanding of what’s going on, and they might feel ashamed to ask questions. So, I really make sure that they are empowered with knowledge to know everything about their disease and the treatment plan; it relieves their anxiety and has better outcomes for their health.
The BMC Health Primary Care practice at 11 Nevins Street provides comprehensive baseline care for patients across life stages.
What part of your work gives you the most satisfaction?
I have a strong science research and neuropathology background. Neuropathology focuses on diseases affecting the nervous system. Most of all, I especially enjoy helping patients navigate multivarious neuropathologies, or the existence of two or more pathological changes in the brain. It is estimated that primary care delivers around 60 percent of all mental health care now in the United States. Due to unfortunate historical stigma, many patients who would otherwise feel uncomfortable stepping into a psychiatrist’s office feel much more comfortable discussing their challenges with their family medicine physician. This is a great opportunity to reach patients where they are, in a way that makes sense for them.
What are your passions outside of medicine?
I love horticulture, exploring new cities, and volunteering locally and internationally.
Family Primary Care Right in Your Neighborhood
Our practice provides comprehensive primary care to patients of all ages, with a focus on preventive care, chronic disease management, and strong patient–provider relationships. At BMC Brighton Primary Care, you’ll receive coordinated and personalized care, as well as access to specialties across the BMC Health System. Whether you have a minor injury or illness, need an annual physical, are looking for prenatal care, or want help managing a chronic condition, our expert primary care providers can help you get the care you need with appointments available when you need them—not months from now.