From Corporate to Care: Dr. Chapman’s Inspiring Journey to Medicine as a Second Career

The path to becoming a physician is rarely straightforward, but few stories are as compelling as Dr. Chapman’s. After a successful career in healthcare IT, Dr. Chapman made the bold decision to transition to medicine—a move that has since earned him recognition as ApolloMD’s Medical Director of the Year. His story, marked by perseverance, self-discovery, and a deep commitment to service, offers invaluable lessons for aspiring physicians, especially those who might be considering medicine as a second career.

A Foundation Rooted in Service

Growing up in Kansas City, Missouri, and moving frequently due to his father’s corporate career, Dr. Chapman learned adaptability at an early age. Despite the challenges of changing schools every two years, his upbringing was steeped in values of community service and giving back. His family’s dedication to helping others, from volunteering in soup kitchens to international mission trips, laid the foundation for his eventual calling in medicine.

“It wasn’t one key moment,” Dr. Chapman reflects, “but a childhood full of service and giving. It’s simply what my family did.” This ethos of service carried through his early career and eventually directed him toward a profession where he could make a tangible difference—medicine.

The First Career: Healthcare IT

Before donning the white coat, Dr. Chapman spent six years in healthcare IT at Cerner/Oracle. His early career saw him living abroad in Dubai, London, and Berlin, with the opportunity to witness healthcare systems across the globe. But despite the career success, something was missing.

“I enjoyed my job and did well,” he explains. “But after a few years, I realized I wanted a more focused career—a vocation.” This realization led him to pursue a Master’s in Healthcare Administration at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Yet, it was during this time that he had a moment of self-actualization, realizing that his true calling was in clinical medicine.

The Leap to Medicine

Making the leap to medical school wasn’t easy—Dr. Chapman was 30 years old when he found himself in classrooms filled with 18-year-olds. “The imposter syndrome was real,” he admits. But he drew strength from the examples of resilience set by his family, particularly his grandmother, who overcame numerous hardships to achieve a successful career in education and philanthropy.

For Dr. Chapman, medicine wasn’t just a career change—it was a second calling. He recalls the profound impact of the 2010 Haiti earthquake, which further solidified his decision to pursue medicine. “I realized that if I wanted to make the most change, I needed to become a healthcare worker, not just a public health advocate,” he says.

Overcoming Challenges and Doubt

The road to becoming a physician is notoriously difficult, and Dr. Chapman’s journey was no exception. He faced doubts along the way, missing out on significant life events like friends’ weddings and spending time far from family. However, the support of his peers, his wife, and the friendships he made during medical school helped him push through. “It was tough,” he admits, “but at the end of it all, I became an Emergency Medicine doctor, which I think is the best specialty in the best field of work.”

Dr. Chapman’s transition into medicine didn’t just lead to personal fulfillment—it also allowed him to become a leader in his field. After completing his residency, he accepted the role of Medical Director at Riverside Medical Center, a position in which he has truly thrived.

Leading by Example at Riverside Medical Center

When Dr. Chapman took on the role of Medical Director at Riverside, the hospital was undergoing a period of transition. ApolloMD had recently taken over staffing and management of the Emergency Department, and he was the fourth medical director in just two years. His leadership approach? Steady, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based medicine.

“I focused on providing steady leadership,” Dr. Chapman explains, “by making myself available, listening to nursing leadership, and reassuring my team.” His efforts were instrumental in improving patient satisfaction and streamlining clinical processes, including stroke protocols and emergency department orders, resulting in significant operational improvements.

Under his leadership, Riverside Medical Center achieved a 50% door-to-needle time for stroke care of under 45 minutes, and the ED’s patient satisfaction soared above the 90th percentile. These remarkable achievements were the result of teamwork, a fact Dr. Chapman is quick to point out. “I have passionate team members across the board, from nursing leadership to Advanced Practice Clinicians. Without them, it wouldn’t matter how hard I worked.”

Director of the Year

In recognition of his outstanding leadership and commitment to patient care, Dr. Chapman was named ApolloMD’s Medical Director of the Year. This prestigious award highlights not only his clinical acumen but also his ability to inspire and uplift those around him. His leadership has transformed the Emergency Department at Riverside, fostering an environment of collaboration, compassion, and excellence.

A Message for Aspiring Physicians

For those considering a career in medicine later in life, Dr. Chapman offers a simple yet profound piece of advice: “How many lives do you plan on living? If medicine is truly something you are passionate about, I can’t imagine letting age get in the way. It is hard, no doubt, but the reward is immense.”

Dr. Chapman’s journey from healthcare IT to emergency medicine is a testament to the power of perseverance, service, and the pursuit of purpose. His story resonates deeply with those who seek to make a difference, not just through their work, but through their commitment to others. At ApolloMD, he has found a place where his values align with his vocation, and where his passion for medicine continues to inspire those around him.

For physicians seeking to join a team where compassionate care and clinical excellence are not just goals but daily practices, Dr. Chapman’s story serves as a powerful example of what’s possible at ApolloMD. Here, you won’t just find a job—you’ll find a calling.