DPC Doctors
In our latest episode of the My DPC Story Podcast, we delved into the inspiring journey of Dr. Cory Annis and Dr. Amy Nayo, whose partnership exemplifies the transformative potential of Direct Primary Care (DPC). Both doctors found a new sense of fulfillment and empowerment when transitioning from traditional insurance-driven healthcare systems to independent practice.
Breaking Free from the Traditional Healthcare Mold
Dr. Cory Annis’s decision to venture into DPC was born out of frustration with the insurance system’s constraints. Despite owning a practice and its building, a $20,000 insurance clawback pushed her to seek a more sustainable and patient-focused model. Her vision was clear: create a practice where the doctor-patient relationship thrives without the profit-driven interference of third parties.
Her inspiration came from an entrepreneur patient who emphasized the need for more flexible healthcare. This conversation ignited Dr. Annis's resolve to establish Unorthodoc in 2015, a practice offering affordable, relationship-driven primary care.
Dr. Amy Nayo's story resonates with similar disillusionment. She left a rural community health system due to the overwhelming workload, lack of voice, and constant gaslighting about patient care improvements. She yearned for a model that honored her values. Discovering DPC, she recognized its potential but encountered financial and partnership hurdles.
The Serendipitous Partnership
The stars aligned when Dr. Annis posted a job ad on Facebook and Instagram, articulating the need for a partner in love with the DPC model. Dr. Nayo responded, driven by her desire to practice close to home in Durham and reduce her commuting time. Their shared values and aspirations made the partnership an instant match.
Joining Unorthodoc as a 1099 independent contractor, Dr. Nayo found emotional relief and rejuvenation. Their collaboration catered to their professional needs and improved their personal lives, proving the DPC’s model holistic approach.
Embracing Challenges: The Transition to DPC
Transitioning to the DPC model wasn’t without its challenges. Dr. Annis and Dr. Nayo navigated contractual obligations and the tricky landscape of patient care post-transition. Dr. Annis’s unique perspective as a physician’s assistant turned medical doctor enhanced her understanding of systemic failings and renewed her commitment to providing superior patient care.
Trademarking the name "Unorthodoc" symbolized their commitment to a distinctive practice transcending traditional norms. Their journey underscores the importance of thoughtful partnerships, transparency, and flexibility in navigating the transition to DPC.
The Role of Medical Assistants
A crucial element of their practice is the support team - the Medical Assistants (MAs). Dr. Annis and Dr. Nayo’s experience with hiring and mentoring MAs, like Jodi, highlight the importance of creating a nurturing and adaptable work environment. Despite Jodi’s initial lack of hands on clinical experience, her dedication and ability to keep things in order proved invaluable.
Dr. Nayo’s narrative of learning MA tasks initially and later building a “dream team” of experienced MAs underlines the significance of balancing training with experienced hires. Flexibility in scheduling and allowing remote work further bolster their supportive, patient-focused environment, demonstrating a firm commitment to their staff’s well-being.
Looking Forward: The Future of Unorthodoc
Establishing a second clinic in Durham aligns with Dr. Nayo’s early aspirations and brings their model closer to a diverse patient population, including refugees, immigrants, and small business employees. Practicing closer to home enhances their accessibility and quality of life, fostering a harmonious balance between professional responsibility and personal well-being.
Reflecting on their journey, Dr. Annis emphasizes the need to explore the unorthodox future of their practice. The hopeful, rejuvenating effect of transitioning to DPC inspires a renewed commitment to raising the bar for patient care. Both doctors envisage a future propelled by mutual respect, shared goals, and an unwavering belief in DPC’s potential.
Their journey exemplifies the transformative power of DPC, redefining healthcare by prioritizing the doctor-patient relationship and professional autonomy. As we look forward to future episodes discussing sustainability, the My DPC Story Podcast remains a beacon of information and advocacy for those seeking an alternative to the traditional healthcare model.
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