FOR DR. Scott Holder, the journey began in his hometown of Franklin County, where he attended Franklin County High School. Fast forward 44 years, and he’s become an integral figure in the community, transforming countless lives one day at a time.
As a board-certified family medicine physician with a particular emphasis in obstetrics, Dr. Holder’s practice goes beyond medical expertise; it’s about building trust and enduring connections. He reflects on the profound moments of delivering babies whose mothers he once brought into the world themselves. These moments in time bind to create lasting bonds formed in his loving care.
“It’s interesting to realize that you delivered this person, and now they’re having a baby. Where have the years gone, right?” Dr. Holder said.
“And so we’ve been doing that now for quite a while. And it’s very rewarding – the friendships you have with these folks, the trust they placed in you, and the overall rapport you have with them. And I think the trust they put in us is just amazing.”
One notable occurrence he fondly recalls is delivering sisters on the same day, a unique event that reflected the profound beauty of his profession and allowed him to share in special moments. Moments like these define Dr. Holder’s professional experiences, turning medical care into cherished family memories.
Dr. Holder’s career personifies the nature of family medicine intertwined with obstetrics. His devotion extends from pregnancy to pediatrics, nurturing relationships often lasting for decades. Witnessing children grow into adults he once brought into the world brings a sense of fulfillment that transcends the ordinary.
“The most rewarding aspect is seeing folks during their pregnancy and delivering their babies, but then you continue to see them with their children and take care of them.”
While he acknowledges the challenges inherent in the field, Dr. Holder’s passion for obstetrics remains unwavering. He appreciates the blend of science and human connection that makes every day unique, even during the inevitable tough times.
“Some days are certainly tougher than others. Most of the time, it’s very rewarding. It’s your involvement and personal connection with those people that matter.”
The evolution of obstetrics over the years has yet to escape Dr. Holder’s notice. He marvels at the technological advancements, particularly in early genetic testing and ultrasound technology, which have transformed his practices. The precision and clarity that modern ultrasound machines provide today are a far cry from the early days of his career.
Dr. Holder’s core values underscore the importance of the Golden Rule: “Take care of people like you would take care of your own family.”
Reflecting on his advice for aspiring medical professionals, Dr. Holder emphasizes the importance of genuine interest and commitment. He encourages thorough exposure to the field before diving in, as understanding the demands of the profession is crucial.
“My advice to anybody who wants to pursue a career in medicine is certainly to get as much experience and exposure to the field before they go into it. The aspects of what you do every day and the demands on your life are sometimes hard to encompass until you really see firsthand what’s expected and what you need to do to be successful. And I think you’ll want to find something you really want to do and are happy doing.”
In contemplating the future of obstetrics in Winchester, Dr. Holder sees promise and growth. With a hospital system that has become a cornerstone of the community, he anticipates continued progress in providing top-notch care to his clients in family medicine, leaving behind his career as an obstetrician to dedicate more time to his family.
As Dr. Holder looks back on his career, he credits his wife, Kathryn, and nurse, Kathy Gray, for their unwavering support. Their contributions have been instrumental in the success of his practice, inspiring the team approach that underpins quality healthcare.
“It’s always a team approach. No one person accomplishes everything. The nurses who work in labor and delivery, all the supportive people in the hospital, and the people who work in our office are our team approach. Without these people, I would not be successful.”
Dr. Holder’s legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and a profound connection to his community. His impact on Franklin County is immeasurable, leaving a trail of healthy families and cherished memories that will endure for generations.
“That’s part of what kept me in practice every day: I love my patients. My [daily goal] is to provide the medical care people need.” GN
