About
Dr. Patricia Schechter earned her medical degree in 1986 from Western University, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific in Pomona, California. She then completed her residency in Family Practice at Pacific Hospital of Long Beach. Before medical school, she earned a Master of Science in Vegetable Science from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York.
Dr. Schechter opened her Atascadero practice in 1988 and has built it into a multi-clinician family medicine home for the Central Coast. She founded and serves as president of the Central Coast Osteopathic Regional Society (CCORS), which affiliates with Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons of California (OPSC). One of her clinical specialties is Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment. She uses gentle manipulation to restore alignment and works with a holistic view of the body. She also practices lymphatic drainage. As the practice's concierge physician, she gives enrolled patients her direct phone and email access around the clock.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
Cornell University, M.S. Vegetable Science (listed as additional degree)
Medical School
Western University, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Pomona, CA (1986)
Residency
Family Practice, Pacific Hospital of Long Beach
Additional Training
Master of Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, Vegetable Science
Who is Dr. Schechter right for?
Dr. Schechter works well for patients who want a single physician to manage their health across a lifetime. She sees patients of all ages, from infants to geriatric adults. Patients managing chronic conditions benefit from her long-term, relationship-driven approach. Those seeking osteopathic manipulation or lymphatic drainage will find her specialty training directly relevant. Concierge members who want same-day access and 24/7 direct communication are a natural fit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Schechter treats a wide range of conditions across all age groups. Her scope includes chronic disease management, women's health concerns, dermatological issues, and preventive care. She also offers osteopathic manipulative treatment for patients with musculoskeletal concerns.
). She earned her degree from Western University, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific. Her osteopathic training informs a whole-body perspective on diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Schechter uses gentle hands-on manipulation to restore proper bone structure and alignment. She does not use the forceful joint cracking associated with chiropractic care. Her technique reflects a holistic view of how the body's structure and energy interact.
Yes, Dr. Schechter has experience in lymphatic drainage. She incorporates this therapy as part of her osteopathic and holistic care approach. Patients interested in this service can ask about it during a visit.
Dr. Schechter has practiced in Atascadero since 1988. That long tenure means she brings deep familiarity with the local patient community. Many of her patients and staff members have stayed with the practice for years.
Dr. Schechter founded and serves as president of the Central Coast Osteopathic Regional Society (CCORS). That organization affiliates with Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons of California (OPSC). Her leadership role reflects her commitment to osteopathic medicine on the Central Coast.
Yes, Dr. Schechter sees patients from infancy through childhood and adolescence. The practice handles pediatric wellness visits, school and sports physicals, and vaccinations. Families can bring children of any age to her care.
Yes, concierge members receive Dr. Schechter's personal phone number and email address. She makes herself available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to those patients. This direct line gives concierge patients immediate access for questions and urgent concerns.
Doctor profile last updated June 11, 2026