Ask Dr. Michael Burgess why he became a physician, and his answer is simple: helping people is what gives his life purpose. 

“I truly feel like it’s a calling,” Dr. Burgess said. 

That calling led him from his hometown of Walhalla, through medical school and residency training, and back to the Upstate, where he now cares for patients at UMC Center for Family Medicine in Union. 

“I always knew I wanted to come back to the Upstate,” Dr. Burgess said. “I’m very passionate about plugging into this area and giving back to a community that’s given me a lot.” 

Dr. Burgess earned his undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina before attending the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) in Spartanburg. During medical school, he completed clinical rotations with Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, gaining firsthand experience in caring for Upstate patients. He later completed his residency training in family medicine at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. 

Although he valued the excellent training and experiences he received in North Carolina, Dr. Burgess always intended to return to South Carolina to continue his career and serve others. 

“Helping people sounds cliché, but it’s the truth. When I think about what brings me satisfaction and purpose, it’s helping someone who’s in need.” 

As the first physician in his family, Burgess didn’t grow up in a medical household. Instead, he developed an appreciation for medicine by witnessing the impact of quality healthcare on those close to him. 

That passion and appreciation led him to family medicine. 

“I love seeing everybody,” he said. “I enjoy caring for children, adults and older adults. Family medicine is the specialty that allows me to do that.” 

He was also drawn to the broad scope of care family physicians provide, particularly in rural communities where access to specialists may be limited. 

At UMC Center for Family Medicine, patients can expect a physician who values listening, partnership and working toward solutions. 

“I like to practice holistically,” Dr. Burgess said. “I want to understand and treat the root cause of a problem, not just cover up the symptoms.” 

That means taking time to discuss lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise and overall wellness, while also ensuring patients play an active role in their care decisions. 

“I view health care as a collaboration,” he said. “My job is to present the evidence and explain the options. Then together, we decide what works best for that patient’s life and situation.” 

Outside of medicine, Dr. Burgess enjoys hiking, dirt biking and spending time with his wife, who he met while both were attending school in Spartanburg. The couple recently celebrated their third wedding anniversary and share their home with Dolly, their beloved dog. 

A self-described “nerd,” Dr. Burgess is also a fan of superheroes and comic books. 

As he begins this new chapter in Union, Dr. Burgess is looking forward to building lasting relationships with patients and families throughout the rural community. 

“I’m excited to be here,” he said. “This area means a lot to me, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the people who call it home.”