Dr. David Spiegelman: Caring for the Pepperell Community for More Than 45 Years

For more than 45 years, primary care physician Dr. David Spiegelman has been a vital part of the Pepperell, Massachusetts community. Since opening his first office in 1977, he has dedicated his career to providing compassionate care and building strong relationships with patients and their families. In 2013, he joined Southern New Hampshire Health’s Foundation Medical Partners, where he continues to bring the same level of commitment to his work.

Inspired to Help Others

Growing up, he was inspired by a relative who served as his family's physician and often provided care in the home. This connection fueled his passion to follow a similar path. After earning his MD from Jefferson Medical College in 1970, Dr. Spiegelman began his career in the Indian Health Service, working on a reservation in Nevada, where he practiced from 1971 to 1974. There, he delivered babies, managed patients both in and out of the hospital, treating patients of all ages, from infants to seniors. From this experience he developed an appreciation for family medicine. He later completed a family practice residency at the University of California, Davis, Sacramento Medical Center.

Caring for Generations

With a career spanning over 50 years, Dr. Spiegelman says the most rewarding part of healthcare is the long-term relationship he is able to build with both his colleagues and patients. Dr. Spiegelman has cared for families across five generations and is often the person his patients turn to when they are facing difficult medical situations. Since the start of his career, Dr. Spiegelman estimates that he has completed over 190,000 patient visits, at times seeing over 30 patients per day.

When building meaningful relationships with his patients, Dr. Spiegelman says he follows this golden rule: treat others how you want to be treated. “I want my patients to feel comfortable when they come to see me. I am here to listen to them, discuss their health, and develop a treatment plan together.” This patient-centered approach has made him a source of comfort and guidance, especially during difficult medical situations.

Witnessing Changes in Healthcare 

While there are many rewarding aspects of healthcare, Dr. Spiegelman shares that one of the most difficult parts of healthcare, at least through his experience in primary care, is trying to balance his work and personal life. Since joining Foundation Medical Partners, Dr. Spiegelman says that he has more balance in his life. Not only does Foundation Medical Partners prioritize the care and wellness of their patients, but also that of their staff and providers. This is increasingly important for new primary care providers.

Dr. Spiegelman says that healthcare has changed and shifted many times throughout his career. For instance, healthcare now has many new technologies that can be used along with traditional patient care. In the early years of his career, Dr. Spiegelman managed patients in the office, the hospital, the nursing home, or in their own home. Now only outpatient care is provided.

A Lasting Impact

Dr. Spiegelman’s contributions to the Pepperell community go far beyond the exam room. His years of service reflect the profound impact of compassionate, community-focused care. As he looks back on his career, he takes pride in the trust and respect he has earned from his patients and colleagues.

With his decades of experience, Dr. Spiegelman has endless advice for primary care physicians just starting out in their careers. His top piece of advice is to, “Always advocate for a healthcare system that prioritizes the needs of patients over all else.”

Through his work, Dr. Spiegelman has set a standard for excellence that will continue to influence the Pepperell community for years to come.

We offer our sincere thanks to Dr. Spiegelman for all of his hard work and dedication to Southern New Hampshire Health, his patients, staff, and colleagues. Those who have had the opportunity to meet him have gained knowledge and lessons that will last a lifetime.