You Know DPC is working when…
I decided to do something a little different in this blog. I’ve written blogs that discuss my perspective on why Direct Primary Care (DPC) is helpful to both patients and physicians in Columbia, SC (and beyond!). This time, I thought you’d enjoy someone else’s perspective!
I asked Cairns, Noreta’s assistant and phlebotomist, to answer the prompt: “You know DPC is working when….” Cairns had no prior experience with DPC prior to being hired over a year ago, so I wanted to get an idea of the “wins” he has seen at Noreta. I gave him free reign to answer the prompt as he saw fit and here’s what he had to say:
“You know DPC is working when…..patients feel heard and valued. Many of our patients have shared how they often felt rushed at their previous primary care doctor’s office, leaving appointments with lingering concerns. At Noreta Family Medicine, we offer hour-long appointments, allowing time to build a meaningful doctor-patient relationship and creating a space where patients can openly express their concerns and receive the attention they deserve.
“You know DPC is working when…..patients feel supported, both in our office and between visits. At Noreta, we believe that care doesn’t stop when you walk out the door. We are dedicated to staying connected with our patients, ensuring they are up-to-date with follow-up appointments, preventive screenings, referrals, medication refills, and any other care needs. Dr. Boylan also regularly checks in with patients through our convenient text-messaging app, providing an extra layer of support.
“You know DPC is working when…..patients are able to get timely primary care. We understand that health concerns can arise at any time, so we respond quickly to patient questions. Whenever someone calls in feeling sick or needing advice, Dr. Boylan is prompt in getting back to them and scheduling a visit if necessary. For instance, when a patient recently texted us with complaints of shoulder pain after a fall, Dr. Boylan arranged an appointment and ordered an X-ray — all within just a few hours.
“You know DPC is working when…..patients have easy access to their family doctor. At Noreta Family Medicine, we believe communication should be simple and direct. All of our patients have access to a secure text-messaging app to quickly reach out with any questions or concerns. Whether it’s a question about blood pressure, medication refills, appointment scheduling or just giving us a health update, we are available to provide prompt answers and support.
“You know DPC is working when…..patients go out of their way to show their appreciation. We’ve been truly touched by the thoughtful gestures from our patients, whether it’s dropping off home-baked food, delivering beautiful plants, or sending Christmas cards. Recently, a patient brought us chocolate-covered pretzels from Dr. Boylan’s hometown! We take pride in building genuine relationships with each of our patients.
“You know DPC is working when…..patients feel supported. At Noreta, we provide care that considers patients’ health and finances. We are committed to providing affordable primary care. Patients have often voiced their gratitude for the savings we provide them on not just primary care office visits, but also labs and prescriptions. A patient, who previously spent nearly $1000 on lab work at their former primary care doctor, paid around $50 at Noreta for the same tests! -Cairns”
Thanks for your insights, Cairns!
Have a good week! Feel free to contact me with any questions.
Melissa Boylan, MD, FAAFP
Family Physician and Owner of Noreta Family Medicine
