Welcome to The Connected Physician, a platform for pioneering healthcare leaders to share their stories of innovation and dedication to enhancing patient care. In this episode, host Katharina Juenger speaks with Dr. Jack Forbush, a trailblazer in Direct Primary Care (DPC) and a founding member of the Direct Primary Care Alliance. Dr. Forbush, who practices in rural Maine, dives into how DPC has evolved as a model focused on delivering accessible, personalized care free from insurance constraints.

In this episode, Dr. Forbush and Katharina discuss:

• The Motivation Behind Direct Primary Care: Dr. Forbush shares how his frustration with insurance limitations led him to join a community of physicians seeking an alternative care model designed to prioritize patient needs.
• Building a Rural DPC Practice: Insights into how Dr. Forbush’s practice serves small business owners and families who often travel long distances, fostering a close-knit patient base.
• Telemedicine and DPC: Learn how Dr. Forbush integrated telemedicine early on, preparing his practice to meet remote care needs seamlessly—even amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The Evolution of Direct Primary Care: Dr. Forbush explains why he believes DPC will continue to grow, potentially adapting to specialties like rheumatology and dermatology, to meet evolving healthcare demands.
• The Art and Science of Medicine in DPC: A unique perspective on how DPC balances personal care with technological support, including the role of artificial intelligence in augmenting patient-centered care.
• Advice for Aspiring DPC Physicians: Practical recommendations, including The Official Guide to Starting Your Own Direct Primary Care Practice, as a valuable resource for physicians interested in DPC.

Links and Resources:

• Jack Forbush
• Direct Primary Care Alliance

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