We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dayhana Pena Santiago a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
DAYHANA, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?
The defining moment in my career was deciding to open Proper Health & Wellness. After years in traditional healthcare, I saw how rushed appointments and corporate constraints left patients feeling unheard. One particular patient had been dismissed by multiple providers, but by truly listening, I was able to make a real difference. That experience solidified my decision to create a practice focused on compassionate, patient-centered care. Since opening in July 2024, we’ve grown rapidly, proving that when you lead with purpose, success follows.
DAYHANA, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m Dr. Peña Santiago, a wife, mom of two, daughter, and physician—roles that shape not only who I am but also how I practice medicine. My journey into healthcare started with a deep passion for helping people, but it was becoming a mother that truly reshaped my approach. I understand firsthand the juggle of family, career, and self-care, and that’s why I’ve built Proper Health & Wellness—a place where patients feel heard, cared for, and empowered in their health and well-being.
I’m incredibly proud of how quickly our practice has grown since opening in July 2024, and I’m grateful for the trust our community has placed in us. Seeing patients return, bring their families, and leave with confidence and peace of mind—that’s what keeps me going.
At the end of the day, I’m just like the women I care for—a mom trying to balance it all I created Proper Health & Wellness to be a place where people can prioritize themselves, whether through healthcare, self-care, or both. Because when we take care of ourselves, we can show up better for the people who matter most.
If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?
Absolutely. Family medicine is more than just a specialty to me—it’s a calling. It’s about building lifelong relationships with patients, and caring for them in a truly comprehensive way. I love that I can treat multiple generations within the same family, watching children grow, supporting parents, and guiding seniors through their health journeys.
Family medicine isn’t just about treating illness; it’s about preventing disease, promoting wellness, and empowering patients to take control of their health. Every day, I’m reminded why I chose this path, and I wouldn’t change it for anything
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
Medicine—especially family medicine—is not just about diagnosing and treating. It’s about listening, truly understanding a patient’s concerns, and making them feel heard and valued. Compassion builds trust, and trust is the foundation of great patient care.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.properhw.com, www.propermedspa.com
- Instagram: @proper.medspa @properhealthw
- Facebook: Proper Health and Wellness
- Linkedin: Proper Health and Wellness
- Twitter: @properhw
- Yelp: Proper health and Wellness
