Key Highlights:
Journey into Direct Primary Care (DPC)
Dr. Amber Hull transitioned to DPC after a disability from a femur fracture in 2021 forced her to reevaluate her career.
She created Village Pediatrics, a low-overhead, concierge-style pediatric practice that focuses on house calls and direct patient access.
Her practice primarily serves children under five, with many families joining during pregnancy.
Postpartum Health & Women's Care
Dr. Hull integrates maternal health into her pediatric care, recognizing the impact of postpartum hormone shifts on women's well-being.
She educates families on the similarities between postpartum and menopausal hormonal changes, emphasizing issues like vaginal atrophy, decreased libido, and emotional challenges.
She collaborates with pelvic floor therapists and mental health professionals to support new mothers holistically.
Challenges in Postpartum Care
The healthcare system inadequately prepares parents for postpartum challenges, including relationship changes and physical recovery.
Many women experience a lack of medical guidance in navigating postpartum hormonal shifts and intimacy concerns.
Dr. Hull encourages open conversations with both parents to foster understanding and support during postpartum transitions.
DPC as a Sustainable Model
Dr. Hull discusses the benefits of DPC in allowing her to balance patient care with self-care.
She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, outsourcing non-medical tasks (e.g., bookkeeping, marketing), and maintaining financial sustainability.
Unlike traditional healthcare models, DPC allows her to cultivate direct relationships with specialists and community resources.
Resources & Continuing Education
Dr. Hull is an advocate for improving physician knowledge in postpartum and sexual health.
Recommended resources:
International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH)
Menopause Society
Dr. Kelly Casperson's book & podcast: You Are Not Broken
She will be speaking on menopause and intimacy at an upcoming medical conference.
Final Thoughts
Dr. Hull’s approach to DPC highlights the need for integrative, patient-focused care in pediatrics. By addressing postpartum health alongside infant care, she provides a holistic model that benefits both mothers and children. Her story is an inspiring example of how physicians can reshape their practice to align with both their values and well-being.
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