His medical expertise extends globally; he has led and joined medical missions to Kenya, Thailand, Ecuador, and Bangladesh. In his 2019 visit to Bangladesh, he coordinated and led a team of residents to Cox’s Bazar to treat the medical needs of Rohingya refugees. In 2021, he applied his field experience in the refugee camps and served as director of obstetrical care for Afghan refugees displaced to Camp Atterbury, Indiana. He has also volunteered at local free clinics, including Crescent Clinic and Near West Outreach clinic. In 2023, he accepted an invitation to join the New York Philharmonic as the official tour doctor to Hong Kong, Kaohsiung and Taiwan. Prior to joining the residency faculty, he primarily provided outpatient services in a community-based clinic. He also served as an emergency room physician in rural and urban settings.

In addition to his commitment to patients and communities, Dr. Paarlberg is also in service to his colleagues and profession. He authored ‘Remembering Kindness’ in the second volume of the publication Family Practice Stories, in an effort to humanize patient experiences. He served as the chair of family medicine with the medical executive committee for 3 years and was co-founder of the food insecurity and DEI committees at Franciscan Health. He has also frequently served as doctor of the day at the Indiana Statehouse. He has been recognized by his peers with several awards including the Richard Feldman Advocacy Award, Exceptional Advocate Award, Edward Micon Teaching Award, John T Emhardt Role Model Award, Resident Teacher Award, and 1^st Prize at the Indiana Academy of Family Physicians for his research.

Dr. Paarlberg has a BA in religious studies from Wabash College and an MD from Indiana University School of Medicine. He is certified in medical bioethics, ACLS, PALS, and ALSO. Outside of work, he has a keen interest in music, guitar, traveling, hiking, and gourmet cooking. He enjoys spending time with his wife of 17 years and three lovely daughters.