Maine

Beloved Doctor Retiring After 43 Years

After 43 years, a beloved doctor in Rockport, Massachusetts, is hanging up his stethoscope. Dr. Sydney Wedmore is retiring at the end of the month.

"I’m very sad to see him leave," said patient Susan Miller, who has been coming to his office in the Whistlestop Mall for more than 35 years. "He’s like a dear friend, who you can call for anything you need."

At 75 years old, Dr. Wedmore keeps busy with more than 1,000 patients, including the Rockport Police and Fire Departments, and make house visits for his elderly patients. But heart surgery at the end of the month made this a good time to retire.

"That's the reality of decision-making sometimes," said Dr. Wedmore. "Being precipitated by something makes it a hell of a lot easier."

There have been a lot of changes in the medical field since 1974, but his office in Rockport has stayed consistent.

His office manager, Nancy Allen, has been working there for more than three decades.

"We’re like the old country doc," she said.

Antiques, including an old organ and vintage photos, decorate the waiting room. Dr. Wedmore refuses to use a computer. He says it’s not technology, but time with patients, that makes the best healthcare.

"The trouble with most doctors is that they get caught up in trying to pay their overhead," he said. "They’re very much caught up in all the gimmicks of medicine, including computers."

Wedmore’s office was busy Thursday morning, with loyal patients getting their last check-ups with their favorite doctor. One patient drove four hours from Maine to see Dr. Wedmore one last time.

"A lot of the patients have not only been patients, but friends," said Wedmore.

Contact Us