Richard J. Hempel, MD
Family Medicine

Get Started Today
About Richard J. Hempel, MD
My primary interest is to share my passion for achieving health goals through diet, exercise and applying evidence based medicine with each of my patients. I strive to maintain health for my patients with the judicious use of medications and specialty referrals. You will become part of my practice family with the kindness and concern that will define our relationship.
As the first MDVIP-affiliated physician in Danville to practice this personalized care, I will incorporate over 30 years of family medicine experience to take care of the full range of patients. My MDVIP-affiliated practice, often compared to a concierge medicine practice, also offers conveniences like same- or next-day appointments. In addition, I am board certified in geriatric medicine and enjoy optimizing health and wellness as we age. Exercise and fitness have been a passion of mine outside of my practice with decades of experience competing in triathlons and road races which allow me to better incorporate exercise into my personalized approach to wellness. I am on the active medical staff at Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center in Danville and provide care to patients in many of the surrounding counties.
Tallahassee, FL
Family Medicine 1986-1988
Tallahassee, FL
1985-1986
Nashville, TN
Doctorate of Medicine 1985
Lexington, KY
Bachelor of Arts, Biology 1981
Graduated with High Distinction
Added Qualifications in Geriatric Medicine
- Medical Director, Transitional Care Unity 1995-2017
- Chairman, Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee 1997-present
- Vice President, Medical Affairs 2007-2014
Exam Review Committee, American Board of Family Medicine Board 2002-present
Exam Test Writing Committee, Joint American Board of Family Medicine, American Board of Internal Medicine Geriatrics 1998–2000, 2008-Present
Medical Director, Boyle County Health Department 2000-2014
Medical Director, Heritage Hospice 1999-2010
National Health Service Corps 1998-2000
USAT All American Triathlete
Team USA Beijing Triathlon
Kentucky Academy of Family Physicians
Kentucky Medical Association
Boyle County Medical Society
Benefits of joining Dr. Hempel's practice with MDVIP
The office of Richard J. Hempel, MD
Mon | 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
Tue | 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM |
Wed | 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM |
Thu | 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM |
Fri | 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
Sat | Closed |
Sun | Closed |


Reviews from the web











In the past I have always dreaded going to the doctor office, but now I look forward to appointments to see the progress I am making.
I had heard of Concierge or Boutique medicine and never imagined myself as a patient. However, now, I cannot imagine myself anywhere else.
I find the ROI is quick and tangible in terms of appointments are not months out but weeks, the actual office visit is not rushed, and no appointment is ever late, and his availability... he gave me his mobile number! It is also intangible it starts with respect, the care from all the staff, he is invested your well-being, and you can trust him. You won't see any pharmaceutical reps throwing parties in this practice and he won't steer away from a procedure or medicine to pad his numbers. Call and meet him and the staff, you won't be sorry, and it will be the best gift you can give to yourself.
KA Danville, KY




Dr. Hempel is a listener, he shows care and concern for his patients, and I appreciate the care and service and advice he provides. I trust him and am quite pleased to be a patient of his.


I could not see myself at any other practice. Unlike some doctors, he talks with me and not at me. He has always worked with me to plan the best approach for my health and well-being. It is a team approach that includes open and honest discussions.
His nurse and staff are amazing and are always helpful with any and all needs that I may have. [I.E. appointments, test results etc]
Even on my best or worst days, they make me feel comfortable and respected with genuine kindness and concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Doctors who operate in the MDVIP models typically see far fewer patients than traditional primary care doctors. That gives them more time to develop deeper doctor-patient relationships that can lead to better outcomes. They can also offer conveniences that most primary care doctors can’t, including same- and next-day appointments. They’re available after hours for urgent matters. And they have time to focus on prevention. That focus begins with the MDVIP Wellness Program, which patients pay for with their annual membership fee.
Most MDVIP-affiliated primary care practices accept insurance (your physician can tell you whether they accept your specific insurance plan). Your annual fee pays for preventive care medical services that insurance usually doesn’t cover (e.g., advanced diagnostic testing and screenings). Your MDVIP-affiliated physician will continue to bill your insurance and charge copays, co-insurances and deductibles as he or she currently does for other medical services like sick visits.
MDVIP makes wellness and prevention easier by providing your physician with innovative tools and technology. MDVIP supports your physician’s practice and seeks to eliminate barriers to a positive healthcare experience. Your doctor will determine whether and how to incorporate these tools at his/her discretion.
**The message above is a personal introduction from the physician, intended to help you get to know them better. The views, opinions, and statements expressed above are solely those of the physician and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of MDVIP. This content is intended for general background purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any mentions of expertise or quality of care are personal expressions and should not be interpreted as guarantees of performance or outcomes.