Key Highlights: Transitioning to Direct Primary Care (DPC) with Dr. Laura Lindner
1. Motivation for Transition
Dr. Lindner experienced growing frustration and burnout in her previous group practice due to a lack of autonomy, inefficiencies in patient care, and an inability to implement her ideas.
She was inspired by colleagues and other DPC practitioners who demonstrated the potential for this model in pediatrics.
2. Initial Steps Toward DPC
Dr. Lindner began by researching the DPC model through Facebook groups like "Pediatricians that do DPC" and "DPC Docs."
She explored the financial feasibility of starting her own practice, including preparing for a temporary loss of income.
A healthcare attorney helped her navigate her employment contract, focusing on non-compete clauses and patient record ownership.
3. Navigating the Transition
To comply with legal restrictions, she used creative methods to inform patients about her new practice:
Created a personal Instagram account to connect with patients indirectly.
Shared updates about her life and later redirected followers to her professional page after leaving her employer.
She emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism during the resignation process, giving ample notice (four months) to avoid leaving her former practice in a difficult position.
4. Challenges Faced
Finding office space within the constraints of her non-compete clause was particularly challenging. She eventually secured a rental arrangement for one exam room in an existing office.
Establishing an online presence was initially difficult due to SEO limitations and issues with gaining control over her Google profile, which was managed by her previous employer.
5. Lessons Learned
Dr. Lindner advises others transitioning to DPC to:
Thoroughly review contracts with legal assistance.
Plan for logistical aspects like securing a business address and managing online visibility.
Maintain positive relationships with former colleagues and staff to facilitate smoother transitions.
6. Results and Reflections
Within six months of opening Homegrown Pediatrics, approximately 5–7% of her former patients followed her to the new practice, increasing to about 10% over time.
Despite initial fears, she successfully built a sustainable practice while maintaining ethical and legal standards.
For more content like this please visit, https://dpcpediatrician.com.
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