A native of Pakistan, Dr. Farhan Ibrahimi first became interested in medicine when his mother contracted a disease when he was in high school. “She developed torticollis while I was in college and naturally I wanted to find a cure for that. Fortunately, she got better by the time I entered medical school. However, she was really the reason I decided to study medicine and become a doctor.”

An internist, Dr. Ibrahimi enjoys having the ability to treat the patient as a whole and not just treat a single disease. “In primary care we have the opportunity to concentrate on overall health,” he explains. “I like to emphasize to my patients how important leading a healthy lifestyle is in order to prevent health problems in the future.”

Dr. Ibrahimi has a special interest in treating obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure in his patients. “Although we have effective drugs to treat these problems, I like to start with diet and exercise first,” he explains. “Healthy eating habits are very important. I talk to my patients about not eating rice, not eating pasta or white bread, these types of foods can quickly raise your blood sugar to unhealthy levels. Foods that are high in complex carbohydrates are much healthier. I tell my patients that if they make healthy dietary choices in their 30s and 40s they have a much greater chance of being healthy in their 60s, 70s, and 80s.”

In his practice, Dr. Ibrahimi treats many patients suffering from anxiety, ADD and depression. “I believe in a multi-faceted approach to management of depression and other mental-health problems. I can prescribe medications but can also refer patients to our Behavioral Health department for care if that is needed.”

Dr. Ibrahimi makes a point to understand his patients needs and motivations so they can make mutual decisions regarding their health. “I like to get to know my patients and find out what motivates them. My role as a primary care physician is to advise them on the best decisions regarding their health. However, they have to be on board with these decisions and work toward their goals. Success takes time, but I work hard to motivate them so they can continue to make progress.”

In his free time Dr. Ibrahimi enjoys going biking and hiking on the weekends and spending time with his kids. He and his wife also enjoy traveling and have been to Europe, Iceland, Turkey and Asia.