13 minutes ago4 min read

Reflecting on 2024 and Looking to 2025

Direct Primary Care Doctors

Dr. Amber Beckenhauer & Dr. Maryal Concepcion

In the latest episode of the "My DPC Story" podcast, host Dr. Maryal Concepcion becomes the interviewee as My DPC Story Alum Dr. Amber Beckenhauer asks her to discuss the incredible evolution of Big Trees MD which just celebrated its third year anniversary. This episode not only highlights the growth of Dr. Concepcion’s practice but also introduces groundbreaking tools like the DPC Directory and THE TOOLKIT, tools to help Direct Primary Care (DPC) physicians and the greater DPC Community at any stage in their DPC journey.

The Birth and Growth of Big Trees MD

Thriving Amidst Challenges and Transitions

Dr. Maryal Concepcion's journey with Big Trees MD began in 2021 when she transitioned from a mobile telemedicine practice to owning a physical clinic space. This evolution was driven by her determination to provide comprehensive, accessible medical care to her community. Her story is marked by several significant milestones, including overcoming logistical hurdles associated with mobile practice, securing a conveniently located brick-and-mortar clinic, and navigating the complexities of lease negotiations.

Community Engagement and Collaboration

Throughout this journey, Dr. Concepcion has remained deeply committed to community engagement. Her practice collaborates closely with the local public health department, administering vaccines and becoming VFC (Vaccines for Children) certified. These efforts ensure that vital health services are available to all members of the community, strengthening the local healthcare infrastructure.

The Impact of Geographic Challenges

Rural Healthcare and Local Pharmacy Closures

Dr. Concepcion's practice is situated in a rural area, where geographic challenges significantly impact healthcare access. The closures of local mom-and-pop pharmacies, driven by competition from larger chains, have reduced the availability of essential medications. Dr. Beckenhauer discusses similar challenges in her area, underscoring the importance of DPC practices like Big Trees MD in filling these gaps.

Adapting to Rural Needs

Despite these challenges, Dr. Concepcion continues to innovate and adapt. The expansion from a 1,300 sq ft space to a 13,000 sq ft facility allows her and her husband, who joined her practice in 2022, to see patients simultaneously. This new space not only facilitates better patient care but also strengthens Dr. Concepcion’s capacity to host residents and medical students, further contributing to the community’s health in the future.

The DPC Directory

Revolutionizing Physician Interactions

Amidst the evolution of Big Trees MD, Dr. Concepcion has helped introduce a revolutionary tool—the DPC Directory. This directory serves as an invaluable platform where experienced and novice physicians can learn of partners who can help them in their DPC journey as well as share insights, mentor one another, find education, and engage in meaningful discussions. Unlike traditional in-person conferences, which can be prohibitively expensive, the DPC directory offers a cost-effective way for the DPC Community to network and learn from each other.

Accessible Networking and Mentorship

Dr. Beckenhauer emphasizes the convenience and accessibility of the DPC Directory, particularly for those who cannot afford the high costs associated with attending conferences. The platform allows physicians to build lasting connections and access mentorship without the limitations of geographical distance or financial constraints. This additional aoption to help in the democratization of knowledge and expertise is a significant step forward for the DPC community.

Introducing the Interactive Digital Magazine: THE TOOLKIT

An Engaging Resource for DPC Success

In addition to the DPC Directory, Dr. Concepcion unveils another groundbreaking tool—THE TOOLKIT (see link below). This interactive virtual magazine offers a tactile and engaging reading experience, likened by Dr. Beckenhauer to flipping through a physical book. It covers a wide range of topics pertinent to DPC practitioners, including generating supplemental income, financial management, and overcoming common fears.

Practical Tools for Professional Growth

Designed with input from the DPC community, the toolkit provides practical advice and resources tailored to the unique challenges faced by DPC practitioners. It aims to support both personal and professional growth, enabling users to optimize their practice and foster a robust DPC model. This comprehensive resource is essential for practitioners looking to elevate their practice and achieve long-term success.

Balancing Professional and Personal Life

Strategies for Work-Life Balance

Balancing professional and personal life is a recurring theme in the episode. Dr. Beckenhauer shares her strategies for maintaining this balance, including proactive scheduling and planning vacations and personal time up to a year in advance. This disciplined approach helps her prioritize family commitments, reducing stress and guilt over time.

Living with Intentionality

Dr. Concepcion reflects on the importance of living intentionally, aligning personal desires with daily actions to achieve happiness and fulfillment. This intentionality is crucial for entrepreneurs and physicians navigating the demands of a busy practice while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Big Trees MD and the DPC Community

Community Support and Future Plans

The journey of Big Trees MD is a testament to resilience, innovation, and community support. Plans for the future include enhancing community presence through health fairs and other initiatives. Dr. Concepcion encourages listeners to stay connected through newsletters for updates, tips, and upcoming events.

Empowering Physicians with New Tools

With innovations like the DPC Directory and the interactive digital magazine, THE TOOLKIT, the future looks promising for DPC practitioners. These tools empower physicians to provide exceptional care while enriching their own lives and the communities they serve. As Big Trees MD continues to grow and evolve, it stands as a beacon of hope and progress within the DPC community.

This "My DPC Story" podcast episode not only sheds light on the remarkable journey of Big Trees MD but also heralds a new era of resources and support for the DPC community. By leveraging these tools and maintaining intentionality in their practice, physicians can look forward to a future of growth, innovation, and balance.