Arlene Flores, DO

Dr. Arlene Flores, family medicine physician, cares for patients of all ages, from newborns to adults 65 and older, providing comprehensive care for the whole family, including preventive visits, sick care and management of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. She also offers in-office procedures such as Pap smears, IUD and Nexplanon placement, and basic skin biopsies.

While we’re officially welcoming her as an attending physician, Dr. Flores is already a familiar face. She joined our community three years ago as a resident, caring for patients in both our hospital and clinics. After building strong relationships with her patients, and falling in love with our community, she chose to stay and continue her career here.

Dr. Flores’ journey to medicine is both personal and inspiring. Originally from Los Angeles, she began her career in the fashion industry, working in design and operations. But when her mother was diagnosed with colon cancer, everything changed. Supporting her mom through treatment and navigating the healthcare system firsthand opened her eyes to the powerful role physicians play — not only through clinical skill, but through empathy and advocacy.

After her mother passed away, Dr. Flores felt called to medicine. She returned to school, majored in biology and fully committed to becoming a physician.

“I didn’t know anyone in medicine,” she shares. “But I felt like I could bring something meaningful —compassion, advocacy and presence. I wanted to be someone patients could truly connect with.”

What she loves most about Family Medicine is continuity of care, walking alongside patients over time, celebrating their progress and supporting them through challenges.

“I love getting to know my patients,” she says. “When they win, I feel like we win together. That continuity, that relationship, makes all of us healthier.”

Her passion for serving underserved communities and being part of a mission-driven organization played a big role in her decision to stay after residency. “I already knew the community, the team and my patients. Staying felt right. This is a place where I can grow and make a real difference.”

Outside of medicine, Dr. Flores describes herself as a “serial hobbyist.” She enjoys gardening, baking bread (she’s currently perfecting her sourdough starter), dabbling in piano and trying out dance classes whenever she can.

Though she left the fashion world behind, her creativity and warmth continue to shape the thoughtful way she cares for her patients.