New Year Update
February 2021 finds us still in the middle of the COVID pandemic and now a Winter Storm advisory, so I would like to share a little bit of good news. This month I celebrate having 100 patients on my panel! For comparison, when I started my DPC clinic in September, 2019, I had six patients.
I am sharing this information because I know some of my patients have wondered if my clinic would be sustainable charging such an affordable rate. By God’s grace, I’m slowly growing and serving more patients! By keeping overhead low, I’m very close to having the clinic monthly income pay for all operational expenses. Having previously worked at a Federally Qualified Health Center that bought out a Christian clinic which couldn’t keep up with overhead expenses because of the charitable work they were doing, I am aware of the practical challenges and trying my best to balance serving as a doctor and learning to be a good businesswoman (“good” in the sense of responsible, wise, capable, well-balanced, not necessarily meaning being able to make the most money most efficiently). I want to thank all of my patients for being patient with me and growing with me in this adventure, and I appreciate the doctor-patient relationships I’ve been able to be a part of.
Other than changes related to a global pandemic, another reason for not updating the website for a while is because I got married in October, 2020. A different season in life came with it many adjustments, and I am thankful for the flexibility provided by this DPC clinic model for me to continue to take care of my patients during a pandemic and figure out new routines and responsibilities at home.
It was a challenging year for many in 2020, so we look forward with hoping for the best in 2021, not because the change in calendar magically comes with it good tidings, but because with time there has been new knowledge, advances, and adjustments gained. We’ve learned to see our priorities better and rearrange our energy and resources, and there is hope COVID vaccine rollout is the beginning of the end to the pandemic, even with new virus variants on the scene. Let us continue to do our part in being kind and responsible. Remember to take care of yourself and be mindful of when you may need a physical or mental break, and remember to stay connect with your support network of family, friends, and community.