Key Highlights:
Journey into Direct Primary Care (DPC):
Dr. Jalan Burton transitioned from traditional pediatric practice to DPC after experiencing burnout in the conventional healthcare system. She founded Healthy Home Pediatrics in 2019, offering 85% house calls and 15% in-office visits.
Challenges in Traditional Healthcare:
She describes systemic burnout, unrealistic time constraints (10-minute follow-ups), and the lack of autonomy in patient care as major reasons for leaving.
Building a DPC Practice:
Knowing Yourself & Your Needs: Entrepreneurs should assess their strengths, weaknesses, and personal circumstances before launching.
Financial Planning: Many DPC practices fail due to a lack of financial sustainability.
Avoiding Comparison: Success in DPC looks different for everyone, and comparing to others can be discouraging.
Balancing Motherhood & DPC:
Dr. Burton has three children, and one of them was born while managing her practice during the pandemic.
Strong support systems (family, childcare, home organization) helped her navigate work-life balance.
Maternity leave was planned strategically by scheduling early visits and arranging coverage with trusted colleagues.
Lessons Learned & Advice for New DPC Physicians:
Avoid blindly following online advice—every DPC practice is unique.
Invest in business coaching and mentorship.
Prioritize self-care and structured time management (e.g., dedicated self-care Fridays).
Implement systems for managing finances and patient memberships.
Future Plans & Mentorship:
Dr. Burton is launching a mentorship program for mothers in medicine and women of color transitioning into DPC.
Emphasizes the importance of creating sustainable, joyful practices that benefit both physicians and their communities.
