About
Eric Rightley MD is a board-certified internist and Albuquerque native who built his concierge practice around the physician-patient relationship. S. in Cell and Molecular Biology, Cum Laude, from Tulane University's School of Science and Engineering, with minors in Spanish and Philosophy. He then returned home to complete his MD at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, earning Phase I Honors and Research Honors. His Internal Medicine residency followed at University of New Mexico Hospital and the VA Hospital, where he served as Chief Resident and was named a Quality Improvement/Patient Safety Scholar. He holds board certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Dr. Rightley is passionate about diagnostic problem solving and the long-term management of complex chronic conditions. He met his wife Betsy during his undergraduate years in New Orleans; they now raise two young sons in Albuquerque and plan to stay for good. Outside the clinic, he is an avid beekeeper and hot air balloon enthusiast. Fair warning: once he starts talking about his bees, he rarely stops.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
Tulane University, School of Science and Engineering, B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology; Minors: Spanish, Philosophy; Cum Laude
Medical School
University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Doctor of Medicine (MD); Phase I Honors, Research Honors
Residency
Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Hospital; Chief Resident, Quality Improvement/Patient Safety Scholar; also University of New Mexico Hospital & VA Hospital
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Rightley right for?
Dr. Rightley is a strong fit for adults who manage chronic or complex medical conditions and want a physician who knows their full history. Patients dealing with multiple long-term illnesses benefit from his focus on diagnostic problem solving and longitudinal care. He works well with patients who value direct access to their doctor and want to discuss test results and treatment plans in depth. Adults seeking a physician who coordinates actively across specialties will find his advocacy-focused approach a natural match.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Rightley treats adults across a broad range of conditions, with particular focus on chronic and complex chronic illnesses. He is trained to solve difficult diagnostic problems and manage long-term diseases. He also delivers comprehensive preventive care and coordinates care when specialist referrals are necessary.
Yes. Dr. Rightley holds board certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine. He earned his MD from the University of New Mexico School of Medicine and completed his residency at UNM Hospital and the VA Hospital, where he served as Chief Resident.
Dr. Rightley dedicates time each day to research specific to his individual patients. He uses that time to ensure each treatment plan incorporates the patient's personal circumstances alongside the latest evidence-based recommendations. This work happens outside of appointments and directly informs the care he delivers.
Yes. Members call or email Dr. Rightley directly. He resolves many medical concerns through those communications without requiring an in-person visit. Same or next-day appointments are also typical when an in-person visit is needed.
Dr. Rightley acts as a patient advocate and liaison across specialties. He coordinates communication between providers, helps patients understand their options, and works to streamline their broader healthcare journey. Members discuss all results and plans directly with him.
Dr. Rightley earned his MD at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, receiving Phase I Honors and Research Honors. He completed his Internal Medicine residency at UNM Hospital and the VA Hospital, where he was selected as Chief Resident and named a Quality Improvement/Patient Safety Scholar.
Dr. Rightley follows a classic approach that prioritizes preventing illness where possible and detecting problems early when prevention is not enough. He builds this strategy around a strong, long-term relationship with each patient. Preventive care runs through every aspect of his practice.
Yes. Dr. Rightley was born and raised in Albuquerque and graduated from St. Pius X High School. He left for undergraduate studies at Tulane University, then returned to Albuquerque for medical school and residency. He and his family plan to remain in Albuquerque long-term.
Doctor profile last updated March 26, 2026