In our first episode of the Fiat Health Podcast, co-founders Caroline and Mike share their personal journeys and the motivations behind establishing Fiat Integrative Health in Franklin, Tennessee. Caroline recounts her unexpected job loss during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led her to envision a clinic that integrates care for the body, mind, and soul. Mike discusses his passion for psychiatry and his perspective on the importance of treating the whole person in healthcare. Together, they emphasize the need for a relational, rather than transactional, approach to medicine, fostering a supportive community for both providers and patients.

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Key Takeaways:

1. Holistic Approach to Healthcare: Caroline and Mike emphasize the importance of treating the whole person—mind, body, and soul. They believe that true health encompasses not just physical well-being but also mental and spiritual health, advocating for a more integrated model of care that addresses all aspects of a person's life.
2. Direct Primary Care Model: Fiat Integrative Health operates on a direct primary care model, which is membership-based and does not accept insurance. This approach allows for more personalized care, longer appointment times, and better accessibility for patients, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and satisfaction for both patients and providers.
3. Community and Provider Support: Fiat seeks to build a supportive community and culture within their practice, prioritizing the well-being of their staff through intentional team-building activities, open communication, and a focus on shared values, which in turn fosters a positive environment for patient care and provider fulfillment.

Reflection Questions:

• When have I experienced transactional care in the healthcare system? How did it impact me?
• Have I ever experienced integrative, whole-person care from a healthcare professional? How did this experience stand out from other healthcare interactions?

Resources:

Fiat Integrative Health website

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:01:51 - Mike's Background

00:04:02 - Caroline's Journey to Nursing

00:09:57 - The Idea for Fiat Integrative Health

00:12:16 - Naming the Clinic

00:14:05 - Meaning of Integrative Health

00:15:53 - The Shift in Medicine

00:17:20 - Mission and Values

00:18:08 - Fragmented Care of Traditional Medicine

00:19:33 - Core Values of Fiat

00:20:33 - Building a Supportive Culture

00:21:20 - Intentional Team Care

00:25:00 - Unique Care Model

00:26:32 - Patient Care and Accessibility

00:27:32 - Reflection on Healthcare System

To learn more visit fiathealth.org

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