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.
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