Doctor's Office
Image
Dr. Hempel

Primary Care That Makes You Primary

Richard J. Hempel, MD

Family Medicine
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
5/5 22 reviews

Get Started Today

Fill out the form to join now, receive more information, or schedule a meeting with Dr. Hempel.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly
$475.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$950.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,900.00 each year*

I want to...

*MDVIP respects your privacy and will only use your personal information as stated in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By providing your number, you are giving your express written consent to MDVIP to receive telemarketing calls or text messages using an automatic phone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice at any number you may provide to MDVIP. You acknowledge that your consent to receive these communications is not required and that you may call the number listed above to get more information or enroll. You can contact MDVIP any time if you wish to stop receiving such messages by replying "STOP" via text or calling 1-877-764-2340. Text "HELP" for help. Message frequency may vary. Message/data rates may apply.

Residency

Tallahassee Memorial Regional Medical Center
Tallahassee, FL
Family Medicine 1986-1988

Internship

Tallahassee Memorial Regional Medical Center
Tallahassee, FL
1985-1986

Medical School

Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Nashville, TN
Doctorate of Medicine 1985

Undergraduate

University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY
Bachelor of Arts, Biology 1981
Graduated with High Distinction

Diplomate, American Board of Family Medicine
Added Qualifications in Geriatric Medicine

Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center

Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center
- 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

Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society
USAT All American Triathlete
Team USA Beijing Triathlon

Fellow, American Academy of Family Physicians
Kentucky Academy of Family Physicians
Kentucky Medical Association
Boyle County Medical Society

Kentucky

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly
$475.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$950.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,900.00 each year*

Doctor's Office
Image
Dr. Hempel

Meet 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.

Get Started Today

Fill out the form to join now, receive more information, or schedule a meeting with Dr. Hempel.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly
$475.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$950.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,900.00 each year*

I want to...

*MDVIP respects your privacy and will only use your personal information as stated in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By providing your number, you are giving your express written consent to MDVIP to receive telemarketing calls or text messages using an automatic phone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice at any number you may provide to MDVIP. You acknowledge that your consent to receive these communications is not required and that you may call the number listed above to get more information or enroll. You can contact MDVIP any time if you wish to stop receiving such messages by replying "STOP" via text or calling 1-877-764-2340. Text "HELP" for help. Message frequency may vary. Message/data rates may apply.

Primary Care That Makes You Primary

A new healthcare model to suit your lifestyle
Image
Woman at Cafe

Benefits of joining Dr. Hempel's practice with MDVIP

assignment_turned_in

MDVIP Wellness Program

Expect comprehensive screenings and tests and a custom wellness plan designed for you.

favorite

Better Doctor-Patient Relationship

97% of MDVIP members are satisfied with their relationship (vs 58% in traditional PCP).

event_available

Same/Next-Day Appointments

See Dr. Hempel quickly and take your time during each appointment.

more_time

Reachable 24/7

Reach Dr. Hempel by phone after-hours and on weekends.

groups

Smaller Practice Size

MDVIP practices are smaller than most primary care practices, which means your doctor has more time to help you.

handshake

Your Dedicated Doctor

See Dr. Hempel when you go to the office — not someone else like a nurse practitioner or physician assistant

flight

Travel Benefits

If you need urgent care while traveling, your physician can help arrange your care with a local hospital, pharmacy or doctor.

emergency

Medical Centers of Excellence

For patients who need care beyond what is available locally, MDVIP can connect your doctor with specialists at some of the country’s leading medical institutions

monitor_heart

Better Health Outcomes

Members have better control of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension.

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.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly
$475.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$950.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,900.00 each year*

Get Started Today

Fill out the form to join now, receive more information, or schedule a meeting with Dr. Hempel.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly
$475.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$950.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,900.00 each year*

I want to...

*MDVIP respects your privacy and will only use your personal information as stated in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By providing your number, you are giving your express written consent to MDVIP to receive telemarketing calls or text messages using an automatic phone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice at any number you may provide to MDVIP. You acknowledge that your consent to receive these communications is not required and that you may call the number listed above to get more information or enroll. You can contact MDVIP any time if you wish to stop receiving such messages by replying "STOP" via text or calling 1-877-764-2340. Text "HELP" for help. Message frequency may vary. Message/data rates may apply.

Reviews from around the web

star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
02/14/2022 Gail Vaughn
Excellent, personalized care with highly knowledgeable physician.
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
02/14/2022 Sherry Peacher
Dr. Hempel and his staff are knowledgeable, caring and thorough. They truly make me feel like a VIP.
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
02/15/2024 JoAnn Wingfield-Baer
I have not before had a doctor who listens and so genuinely cares. Most prior physicians just phoned it in and were so jaded that the resolution was another pill. Dr. Hempel is a caring diagnostician. Changing to this MED-VIP physician was the best move I ever made.
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
02/23/2025 Ken Douglass
Dr R Hempel is awesome and so is his staff!
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
02/22/2025 Diane Madsen
Great ease of getting to see Dr Hempel. Attentive. Excellent staff and exceptional facility.
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
03/25/2023 Susan Hooper
Knowledgeable, friendly, great staff .
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
03/18/2025 Chris Miller
Dr.Richard Hemple and his staff at Family Medical Clinic are very professional,kind and helpful and a pleasure to work with.I highly recommend their services!
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
02/14/2024 Debbie Butler
Excellent Dr and staff always respond promptly to the patient’s needs and concerns
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
03/25/2024 Green Tree Animal Hospital
excellent and timely care
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
03/18/2025 LuAnne Littlefield
I am thankful for the thorough care my husband and I receive from Dr Hempel. I appreciate how well he listens to concerns, spends plenty of time with us, and offers excellent guidance. Many many thanks!
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
12/21/2022 Ken Alexander
After a career in the military and as a civilian. I have seen a lot of doctors; Dr Hempel is the best PCP I have ever had... hands down! He is attentive, and a great listener and as a result is the ultimate partner in your health and wellness journey.
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
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
02/22/2025 Rick Rudd
Dr. Hempel is professional, thorough and very knowledgeable. He stays up to date on medical research. He spends all the time I need with me and cares deeply about my health and my family’s well-being.
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
11/29/2019 John Thomas
I have been with Dr. Hempel for several years now and (after finally listening to his recommendations) I am in the best shape I've been in for 20+ years. In the past 18 months I have lost 30+ pounds and have come off of a blood pressure medication. No tricks or magic, just LISTENING to his advice on diet and activity - and I hope to improve from where I am right now.

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.
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
02/08/2020 Linda Yocum
I had an emergency and called ahead that I was coming in. I was met as soon as I entered the door and taken to a room where I was checked. Dr. Hempel rushed in and also checked me then ordered an EKG. I was diagnosed with afib and a fax was sent in for medication. I really appreciated the quick response and that I didn’t have to go the ER.
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
02/17/2023 Elizabeth Peniston
Dr. Hempel is an excellent very caring physician. Have gone to him for many years. I leave each visit knowing he wants only the best for me
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
02/20/2019 Pamela Abell-Caldwell
I have been a patient of Dr. Hemple since I was 33 years old. I didn't even have a local doctor and I was lucky enough that someone at work suggested him when a medical problem arose.
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.
star star star star star
star_border star_border star_border star_border star_border
07/23/2019 Pamela Hawkins
I moved to Danville from Oklahoma City in 2001. A friend recommended Dr Hempel to me and it was the best decision I have made regarding my health. He took wonderful care of my husband before his death. Dr Hemple’s is very knowledgeable and one of the kindest men I know. He is encouraging about my health. I can’t imagine going to another doctor.

Testimonials from patients of Richard J. Hempel, MD

High Level of Personalized Health Care

from Mary in KY • September 26, 2024
We have experienced a high level of personalized health care as members of Dr. Hempel’s MDVIP family practice. Features such as an annual health assessment and face to face review of results, quick access to an appointment, and ability to reach our doctor directly in an emergency have all resulted in a level of communication and care that has ultimately saved money, time, and most importantly, Read more...

Gratitude

from Edward in KY • March 11, 2024
After a lifetime of urgent care centers and visiting available physicians, the moment Dr. Hempel accepted me as his patient allowed me to feel comfortable with my health care provider going forward. I was already aware of Dr. Hempel’s experience and excellence.

Tackling the Tough Problem

from James in KY • March 11, 2024
Image provided by: James
I have been overweight most of my adult life. Dr Hempel is the first doctor I have ever had that has ever talked about it. He made me feel I could get my weight down and that I should get it down. He also let me know about a phone/tablet app that keeps up with calories in/calories out and exercise done. I have now lost 20 pounds in five months - not too slow not too fast - and I feel I can get Read more...

Jackie Lesperance

from Jacqueline in KY • March 10, 2024
Image provided by: Jacqueline
I have been a patient of Dr. Hempel well before MDVIP care. He has always been a true professional. He is attentive to my needs and compassionate. I have implicit trust in him and have enjoyed his staff as well. He knows I value my health and has helped me with my goals. I am moving back to my home state of Wisconsin where I will have family support at this time in my life. So surprised there is Read more...

Dr. Richard Hempel-My MDVIP Doctor

from Judy in KY • January 19, 2024
Dr. Richard Hempel is my primary care physician and I am so thankful for his kindness and continuing support. He always listens to my concerns and allows all the time needed to discuss any burdens that I may have. I not only consider Dr. Hempel as my doctor but also a close friend that I feel comfortable to reach out for guidance and support. Dr. Hempel definitely meets all the criteria, plus Read more...

The Office of Richard J. Hempel, MD


Locations & Hours

Primary Office

640 East Lexington Avenue
Danville, KY 40422

call 859.236.3957

Get Directions

Hours

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

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual, and annual payments.

Quarterly
$475.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$950.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,900.00 each year*

Get Started Today

Fill out the form to join now, receive more information, or schedule a meeting with Dr. Hempel.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly
$475.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$950.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,900.00 each year*

I want to...

*MDVIP respects your privacy and will only use your personal information as stated in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By providing your number, you are giving your express written consent to MDVIP to receive telemarketing calls or text messages using an automatic phone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice at any number you may provide to MDVIP. You acknowledge that your consent to receive these communications is not required and that you may call the number listed above to get more information or enroll. You can contact MDVIP any time if you wish to stop receiving such messages by replying "STOP" via text or calling 1-877-764-2340. Text "HELP" for help. Message frequency may vary. Message/data rates may apply.

Copyright © 2025 MDVIP, All Rights Reserved.
Privacy PolicyTerms of Use