Top 5 Reasons People Are Leaving Big Healthcare
It’s been too long since my last blog— my apologies for leaving you hanging! I’ve since put a reminder on my calendar, so you should see something every couple weeks or so… and always, straight from the mind of yours truly— Dr. Courtney Barrett!
Unhappy with your current experience in healthcare? Feel like just a number in a hamster wheel churning big profits for corporate hopsitals and insurance CEOs? You’re not alone. Here’s my take on the top reasons people are leaving big healthcare in search of something better. These pain points are what Direct Primary Care offices like mine help to solve. We can’t fix all the problems in healthcare, but we can help with big pain points!
More Time With The Doctor
Being a small practice primary care doctor allows me the oppotunity to know my patients and to connect. The DPC model allows me to practice the way medicine was meant to be— spending time with patients. Time to listen. Time to understand. Time to educate. Time to develop a plan. Time to review options. Time to consider alternatives. Time to smile, laugh, or share a coffee. It matters. And time is just not available with insurance-based practices. (If so, the physician is covering overhead expenses with other side gigs because overhead far outweighs insurance payments for care!)
Less Bureaucracy, More Access
When you cut out the middle men, everything is easier— easier scheduling (hop on an app and see what fits with your schedule!) and not wait weeks or months to be seen. Talk (or message) with your physician directly instead of three different receptionists or nurses who reply with an unhelpful tidbit which simply delays communication with your doc!
Personalized, Holistic Care
Your care is centered around YOU. Not “quality metrics” that have no evidence for improvement. Not the mission of adinistrators. Not the goal of insurances who want to increase profits. Truly patiebnt-centered care. I meet people where they’re at and help them reach their goals. Every person is unique. Looking for help with perimenopause or menopause? Wondering where to get OMT in the Triangle? Yearning for a compassionate doctor who listens? I want to be your doctor.
Transparency in Cost (Especially for Uninsured or Underinsured)
Direct Primary Care is a very affordable healthcare option for people without insurance or those with high deductible plans. The value extends even to those with “perfect insurance” because the doctor is accessible and appointments are available when needed! The wealthiest of people with the best insurance can’t wait weeks or months for a health concern. With DPC, you get the luxury of expensive concierge care at very affordable prices. And let’s face it— if “perfect insurance” exists, it is waaaaaay overpriced and someone’s getting ripped off somewhere!
Moreover, common generic medication and low-cost cash-pay labs are cheaper than using insurance in many cases! Why pay over a $20 medication copay to a big box pharmacy when I can supply you the medication at close to wholesale prices? It’s cheaper than GoodRx!
Tired of Feeling Like a Number
I’m a compassionate doctor who enjoys listening and learning about my patients. You’re more than medical problems, allergies, and lab numbers. You are a person, a parent, a teacher, a community leader, a nature enthusiast, an avid runner, a bird watcher… whoever you are in this world, you’re an individual.
Overall, people are seeking a relationship with a physician who has value-aligned care. I respect patient autonomy. I’ll give you the information, I’ll teach you the science behind it. But healthcare decisions are up to each individual. Prefer holistic options— I have them and can support you. Prefer medications— let’s discuss the pros and cons. Prefer a Christian phyisican— we can pray about it together. Prefer alternative medicine— I will support you as I known (and aknowledge!) the benefits there, too. Prefer a doctor who has been a patient herself— I’ve unfortunately got you covered! Prefer a doctor who is tansparent, honest, down to earth, and real… someone who will research updated information or new studies to support your healthcare journey? Let’s talk!
While I consider myself holistic (I feel I offer a balance of traditional and alternative perspectives and treatments), and I believe so much of our environment impacts our health, I’ll still look for common causes of ailments first. I don’t consider myself a “functional” medicine doctor, but I do think outside the box when needed. I do have an analytical eye. I do ask questions when the “normal” labs don’t match abnormal symptoms.
Grab a coffee or a tall glass of water and let’s see if we’re a good fit. Schedule a meet and greet here for an information chat over google meet. (email if you rather visit the office, that’s fine too!)
I serve patients across Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, and beyond. Whether you're looking for more time, more connection, or more peace of mind — you're welcome here!
Until Next Time…
CB
