Meet Kendal Hansen, MD

Meet Your New Primary Care Partner: A Q&A with Kendal Hansen, MD, Our Newest Physician in Petoskey

We are thrilled to introduce the newest addition to the Table Health team! Returning to her roots, our newest primary care physician, Dr. Kendal brings a passion for preventative health and a deep love for the Northern Michigan community. Get to know her approach to care, her background, and what she’s looking forward to most in Petoskey.

Q: What is your role at Table Health and your area of medical expertise?
A: I am joining the Table Health team as a primary care physician.  My expertise is in full-spectrum family medicine, which means I provide care for individuals of all ages, from newborns to seniors.

Q: What are some of the symptoms and conditions you commonly treat?
A: I treat a wide variety of needs. This includes mental health, women’s health, and pediatric conditions as well as chronic issues like high blood pressure and cholesterol. I’m also here for acute illnesses, joint pain, and procedures like treating lacerations for all ages.

Q: What does a typical visit look like with you?
A: At Table Health, we do things differently. Visits typically range from 30 to 60 minutes. This extended time is vital, it ensures every patient feels fully heard and allows me to gather the comprehensive information needed for individualized care. We use current clinical guidelines for every concern, but we always reserve dedicated time for preventive health discussions.

Q: How would you describe your approach to patient care?
A: I am a big believer in preventative care. I want to help prevent issues before they occur. I strive to build a relationship of trust and act as a true advocate for my patients, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to navigate the healthcare system.

Q: What makes your approach to health different?
A: I recognize that health looks different for everyone. We are all at different points on our wellness journeys. My goal is to meet people exactly where they are and partner with them to take meaningful, achievable steps toward better health.

Q: What health trends or movements excite you right now?
A: I am incredibly encouraged by the growing emphasis on mental health. Seeing the reduction of stigma and the increase in dedicated research is wonderful, as mental health plays such a pivotal role in overall well-being.

Q: Who inspires you, and how do you stay current in your field?
A: I’m inspired daily by my family and the leaders in the Direct Primary Care (DPC) space. To stay sharp, I regularly read the American Academy of Family Physicians’ publications to ensure I’m up-to-date with the latest evidence-based guidelines and recommendations.

Q: How do you spend your time outside of Table Health?
A: I love being with my husband, our son, and our four rescue animals (two dogs and two cats!). You’ll often find me by the water or running as part of my own wellness routine.

Q. What book did you last read?
A. I just finished reading How to Talk So Little Kids Will Listen by Joanna Faber and Julie King. It’s an amazing resource for the “good, bad, and ugly” of parenting toddlers!

Q: You’re a Petoskey area native, what do you love most about being back?
A: I was raised here, and although my medical training took me around the world, I’ve learned there is no community quite like Northern Michigan. The way people here go above and beyond to support one another is truly special.

Q. Why did you choose this profession?
A. I have always been acutely aware of how precious health is and how valuable life is. As a primary care physician, I believe I have a unique opportunity to help individuals optimize their well-being and to advocate for their needs with compassion and intention.