To my Patients and Friends in Vienna and its surrounding communities,
It is with a very heart that I must announce the closing of Capital Region Physicians-Vienna, formerly known as Vienna Family Practice, as of May 31, 2021.
Nothing has made me prouder than serving the medical needs of this community. I opened the doors to this doctor’s office on Nov. 23, 1994 and planned to work in this community indefinitely. Sadly, this plan was made to change.
As a physician, I have cared for this town’s babies, and watched as those babies grew and had babies of their own over the past 26 years. I’ve counseled this towns’s families during strife and celebrated them in times of joy. I’ve practiced medicine with this town’s elderly, and mourned when my patients passed. And I have loved all facets of being a Family Practice Physician in this community.
Due to political and financial changes in the medical profession, I chose to merge with the Capital Region Medical Center (CRMC) system in July 2016. It was very strange to go from being a self-employed physician to becoming a member of the large hospital system. I felt it was the only way to continue to provide medical services in Vienna. Having been affiliated with the CRMC over the years, I felt secure in the blanket of the hospital, and I continued these last five years providing the same type of conscientious care to my patients. I found pride in making that transition seamless for you.
After careful consideration by CRMC Administration, I was notified that the unfortunate decision had been made to close the Vienna clinic. I am deeply saddened that I will no longer be able to provide health care to this community. More than anyone, I recognize how difficult it will be for the town of Vienna and the towns nearby. It weighs heavy on my heart that patients in and around Vienna may have to travel long distances to receive care.
A part of me will always be in Vienna. The scholarship at Vienna High School that I created and presented in my deceased brother’s name to a graduating senior over the last 20 years will continue to be presented in perpetuity, even without my presence in the community. My memories of riding in the Vienna holiday parades, throwing candy and waving at my kind neighbors and patients still bring such joy. Picturing my own son and daughter in the clinic on Saturdays while I cared to the needs of my patients will always make me smile. The vegetables, jams, and salsa I purchased at the store will never taste as good or mean as much as the ones I received as gifts over the years.
In closing, I know that my patients will find new caregivers. Whether that doctor is a new CRMC physician, or if you choose to find a different doctor outside of the hospital system, please be as kind to him or her as you have been to me. Make sure your next doctor really listen to you, as I have always tried to do. Advocate for your health and the health of your family members. Take your prescription medications as directed. Refrain from dangerous and unhealthy habits. And always, always remember that your town doc will be thinking of you often.
You each have left a mark on my heart.
God bless you,
Dr. Keith Segall
