Dr. Rachal is a southern Christian small town family doctor. He is very religious and that is an important aspect of his life and practice. He has a very kind heart and truly does love to teach, and feels as though he learns as much from the students as we do from him. He gives a lot of autonomy in his preceptorship. By my second day, I was doing visits independently, and he appreciates my input on diagnoses and plan formulation. He wants to tailor the experience to whatever your interests are, so be clear with him about them. Outside of work, he let me and the other student use his dock, kayaks, swimming pool, blackberry bushes etc. When our power went out during a storm, he offered up his house to us as he has a generator. He took us and the staff out to dinner during my first week, and he even found a keyboard for me to borrow after I mentioned that I play piano. He truly makes sure you are taken care of. I have not yet received my evaluation, but he is quick to give praise and is very kind in his feedback. I have enjoyed my time working with Dr. Rachal and I feel that I learn exponentially more each day I work with him.
