We had the good fortune of connecting with Isabelle Amigues and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Isabelle, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I never thought I would leave my employed position as a rheumatologist on the faculty at National Jewish Health. I had a great job, wonderful colleagues, and loved the research I was involved in.

But when the idea of opening my own direct care/concierge practice in rheumatology started to bubble up, it became something I couldn’t stop thinking about. Questions arose: How could we improve a system that seems broken and overlooks the importance of human relationships? How could we heal the patient-physician relationship? How could I improve my patients’ outcomes faster and better? And overall, how could I offer the best version of myself as a rheumatologist?

It took me two years after achieving remission from my own diagnosis of stage IV breast cancer to finally realize that the risk of not trying to create the best version of my ideal medical practice was worse than going on my own and opening UnabridgedMD, the first rheumatology direct care/concierge practice in Colorado.

Risk-taking isn’t just about blindly embracing uncertainty; it’s about making calculated decisions driven by passion and purpose. For me, it’s been about pushing boundaries, challenging myself, and refusing to let fear dictate my path. The risks I’ve taken have shaped my life and career, leading me to where I am today—not just a survivor (although I detest this word), but a rheumatologist, and someone who understands the value of embracing life’s uncertainties while staying grounded in hope and determination.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
As I reflect on the journey of UnabridgedMD, I realize that building this practice has never felt like work Words can’t fully convey the profound alignment I feel with myself and my team as we strive to care for our patients and guide them towards remission and better health.

The name “UnabridgedMD” reflects our approach of seeing the entirety of our patients, not merely focusing on one organ system or issue, but placing their concerns within the broader context of their lives. We believe in treating the whole person, not just symptoms, and I wanted to offer all of myself, not just a fragmented version.

What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to holistic care. We prioritize building strong relationships with our patients, offering extended appointment times to truly listen and understand. This extra time not only ensures that every patient feels valued but also facilitates accurate diagnosis and appropriate management plans.

However, building this practice hasn’t been without its challenges. We’ve faced fears, doubts, and uncertainties, particularly in navigating the complex healthcare regulations. Yet, these challenges have only strengthened my resolve to offer a better system for our patients. Every setback has taught me the power of resilience and determination, reinforcing my dedication to our mission.

As a French entrepreneur, I sometimes marvel at what we’ve been able to create, especially considering the differences in entrepreneurial culture between my home country and here. Most of all I’m proud that UnabridgedMD is filling a gap in a broken system and providing a beacon of hope for both patients and burnt-out colleagues.

Above all, I want all rheumatology patients to know that remission is always our goal.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
There are so many! And it is depending on the time of the year.
I love perusing in Rino and Capitol Hill.
To me Colfax is one of the most authentic street in the US. It has such an eclectic architecture, type of businesses and people on it. I’m always entertained when I am on Colfax.
Any shows are Redrocks is magical too.
My favorite restaurant right now is the pop up Margot restaurant. I think they should get a Michelin Star.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
So many! First, my patients who chose our UnabridgedMD practice. They are the reason I do what I do without ever feeling like it is work.
My support system and wonderful humans: Maggie Shaffer, Tiff Willson, Rachel Heckel, and also Dr. Brieanna Seefeldt who first taught me about the direct care model, Dr. Rick Abrams who mentored me in the beginning of my journey. And so many more!

The EntreMD business School run by Dr. Una which helps me stay on track with my vision.

The Miracle Morning book by Hal Elrod which has helped me have a consistent morning routine which, I honestly feel, changed my life.

Website: https://www.unabridgedmd.com/

Instagram: UnabridgedMD

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-amigues-a0543a32/

Twitter: UnabridgedMD

Facebook: UnabridgedMD

Yelp: UnabridgedMD

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9AcqDmgigsfE2y-EB9j4_Q

Other: POdcast: UnabridgedMD

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.