During my time in traditional medicine practice, I experienced many frustrations over the limitations faced by both doctors and patients in providing and receiving outstanding care. Most of us would agree that when choosing a primary care doctor, we want someone who is knowledgeable, well-trained, kind, compassionate, available, and easily accessible when needed. Additionally, we seek a trusted expert to be with us in times of need.
In traditional practice, this ideal is nearly impossible to achieve. The time doctors can spend with patients is dictated by insurance companies and practice administrators since medical offices are reimbursed at a fraction of the cost of services. Incentives are offered for meeting certain “quality” metrics determined by insurance companies, but none of these measures truly align with the individual needs of the patient.
This is why I left mainstream medicine. Being a concierge, direct care physician allows both me and my patients to focus on what matters most—caring for the whole person. With this freedom, my patients and I can delve deep into the pillars of not only physical health but also emotional well-being. We address traditional health measures such as cholesterol, hemoglobin A1c, blood pressure, mammograms, colonoscopies, etc., but we can also explore the root causes of each individual patient’s symptoms, regardless of how vague they may be. We can investigate less traditional yet vitally critical markers, often not covered by insurance, such as hormone panels, apolipoprotein B, lipoprotein(a), DEXA body fat compositions, coronary calcium scores, and many others. We can freely invest in building our relationship so that I can be their greatest advocate in times of need, regardless of health circumstances.
I realize that health is wealth. Most of us invest thousands of dollars every year in health insurance that we never use; we avoid the doctor because it will “cost too much,” continuing to feel less than ideal and not addressing our health concerns. We consume health information from untrustworthy sources and wellness practitioners that could have a huge negative impact on our health. The reality is that having a primary care doctor with a holistic approach to health and well-being as an integral part of your care team can not only help you live a longer, healthier life but can literally save your life!