Dr. Joel Bates is originally from Michigan. He graduated from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his Family Medicine Residency at Metro Health Hospital in Wyoming, Michigan.
Dr. Bates has been involved in medical education for more than 20 years and has been working as a program director for the past fourteen. In his own practice, he focuses on working with a diverse population of patients from newborns to senior care. He enjoys making connections and providing care for an entire family. He is a past president of the MAOFP (Michigan Osteopathic Association of Family Physicians) and served on the board for 10 years.
Dr. Bates splits his time in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife, teenage son, and dog (Ellie), and Valparaiso, Indiana where he practices at HealthLinc. He enjoys watching college sports and was a division one college athlete. His favorite professional team is the Detroit Lions. In his free time, he and his family enjoy relaxing at their cabin in Mackinaw City. His favorite movie is Guardians of the Galaxy and his favorite music is ’70s and ’80s rock.
His real passion is working with Family Medicine residents allowing him to collaborate with fresh minds and see them mature, graduate, and begin their own practice.