Delicate and gentle in its practice and dedication to serving the communities of Hampton Roads, James River Family Practice continues to embody what it means to be family centered, always giving the highest quality care and respect to each patient. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in October, 2023, the practice, owned by James M. Halverson, D.O., FAAFP, is unique to the community as an independent family practice, though traditional in its values, positive attitudes and comprehensive approaches to patient care.
Dr. Halverson came to the area in 1992. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry and his Master of Education degree in science education at The University of Virginia before earning his D.O. degree in osteopathic medicine at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his family practice residency at Medical College of Virginia/Riverside Regional Medical Center in 1995. He is also a diplomat of the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners, a fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians and is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.
A physician for nearly three decades, Halverson’s story began with a career decision of becoming a high school chemistry and physics teacher while coaching high school basketball. When asked what brought on the seemingly dramatic transition to become a physician, he says, “I knew I wanted to be a doctor my entire life because I’ve always wanted to help people.
After completing his residency, he briefly joined a local practice before establishing his practice in 1998.
As an emblem of healthy living through his promotion of healthy lifestyle practices, Halverson’s practice works to maintain an atmosphere that is both welcoming and educational for his patients. Through a collective effort of teamwork and communication, his staff informs patients on the importance of disease prevention through various care management practices and programs.
“We give the kind of service we think is best,” Halverson says. “Far and away the best way to grow our practice is to take care of our current patients,” he says. “We find that most of our referrals come from coworkers, their neighbors or family.”
Dr. Jerome Provenzano, a well-respected area physician with decades of experience in medicinal care, has recently joined the practice. Provenzano is a board-certified family medicine physician who graduated from Georgetown University Medical School and completed his family medicine residency program here with the Riverside Family Medicine Program.
By delivering evidence-based care through telehealth appointments, digital prescription refills, chronic care management, annual wellness visits and more, Halverson is committed to putting the needs of his patients first. A patient portal is available to all patients, providing access to lab results, immunization records, medical history, appointment calendars and much more.
“Most of my devoted staff is available and on call, 24/7 for our patients. We also have a same-day appointment policy for patients. As a practice, we hold ourselves to a high standard, striving to provide the highest quality care possible to our patients,” Halverson says. He and his team offer a variety of care practices that include minor surgery, acute illness and preventative care, work-related injury treatment and chronic condition management. A newer program has been implemented to help patients cope and manage chronic illnesses and conditions.
“My staff is the reason our practice is unique in our ability to maintain an atmosphere filled with hope and optimism for our patients,” says Halverson. He is passionate about serving others and practicing medicine. As there are often challenges, the doctor believes it is important to stay organized and more importantly, plan ahead.
With more advanced medicinal technology being developed over the last decade, it has influenced a rise in use of medications among patients and physicians. Dr. Halverson explains that “as a comprehensive physician, it can be challenging to keep up with the changes of modern medicine. Unfortunately, with all the new medication being used to treat such a wide variety of ailments and medical conditions simultaneously, it can be difficult to find the right balance.” As an independent practice and care provider, James River Family Practice honors its commitment to providing kind, compassionate care to its patients.
When he is not working, Halverson enjoys playing golf, traveling, spending time with his two daughters and five grandchildren and reading as much as possible.
TO THE POINT:
Dr. James M. Halverson
James River Family Practice
Address:11835 Fishing Point Dr., Ste. #104, Newport News, VA 23606
Phone: 757-599-5588
