Bonus Episode - Why I Chose Direct Primary Care: A Patient’s Story

Bonus Episode: Why Direct Primary Care Works — A Patient’s Perspective

In this special bonus episode, Dr. Angela shares an unexpected yet powerful outtake from a recent patient interview. Her guest, Tom, opens up about why he left traditional insurance-based care behind and chose the direct primary care (DPC) model. He discusses how his frustrations with rising costs and decreasing access to real care led him to research DPC—and ultimately find Seeds of Health DPC.

Together, they reflect on the broader shift away from insurance-dominated systems, the role of trust and access in healthcare, and how this care model brings doctors and patients back into true relationship. You’ll also hear Dr. Angela share her own journey into DPC, the influence of mentors like Dr. Amat, and the faith-filled path that brought her practice to life.

Whether you're new to the concept or already curious about DPC, this heartfelt mini-episode will give you a glimpse of its impact—from the patient’s seat.

Want to learn more? Reach out at info@seedsofhealthdpc.com or visit www.seedsofhealthdpc.com.

Find a DPC practice near you https://www.dpcfrontier.com/.

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Transcript

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🎧 Bonus Episode: A Patient’s Perspective on Direct Primary Care

Dr. Angela:
Hey, this is Dr. Angela. Welcome to a special bonus feature of the podcast!

During a recent interview with one of my patients, we got into a powerful and unexpected conversation about Direct Primary Care. He shared why he chose this model, how he found my practice, and what it’s been like from the patient side of things.

This is a timely conversation—one that highlights the heart of what DPC is all about. I hope you enjoy this brief outtake.

Patient (Tom):
What brought me to Direct Primary Care was the fact that insurance had become too costly, too complicated—and honestly, too unhealthy. The system’s headed in the wrong direction. Insurance companies have wedged themselves between doctors and patients, and what’s best for the patient often isn’t what gets done.

So, I started doing some research. I watched a lot of Dr. Josh Umber’s videos on YouTube—some are older, but they’re really informative—and that got me interested in DPC. I started searching for local DPC doctors here in Grand Rapids, and that’s when I found Dr. Amat’s practice. At the time, I think she might’ve been the only one doing it.

She took great care of me. And when she stepped away, I ended up with you, Dr. Angela. I don’t remember the exact transition, but it was seamless. When I needed prescription refills, I reached out, and you and your team got me set up and enrolled right away. It just made sense.

Dr. Angela:
Absolutely. Dr. Amat was one of the first DPC doctors in West Michigan, and she's been such a valuable part of the movement. There are now a few smaller practices here locally, and even a larger one—Christian Healthcare Centers—that also operates on a DPC model, though it's got more of a healthcare system feel.

Before launching my own practice, I was doing coaching, podcasting, and exploring this path of entrepreneurship. Becoming a business owner was never in my original vision as a physician. But launching my podcast and coaching business helped me realize that being an entrepreneur could actually be fun—and more importantly, aligned with my values.

The podcast My DPC Story was instrumental for me. I listened to interviews with DPC doctors, including one with Dr. Amat, and even met with a few local DPC physicians who have since moved on. That exploration eventually led me to take the leap.

It took a couple years of discernment and a whole lot of faith. Dr. Amat encouraged me along the way, and we often say our paths crossing felt divinely orchestrated. There’s no way we could have planned it all. I’m so grateful for the way things unfolded.

Why did I do it? Because I wanted to spend more time with my patients. I wanted to return to the why of medicine—serving people with integrity and intention. And to be honest, I don’t think you can do that in our current healthcare system unless you’re serving only the ultra-wealthy. Concierge medicine isn’t my lane. This is.

Patient (Tom):
Right—and even before we hit record, we were talking about how health insurance companies have come between doctors and patients. And it’s not just healthcare. Car insurance, homeowners insurance… the whole industry has shifted toward profit over protection. It’s a little baffling to me that DPC isn’t more widespread already.

But I get it—people are dependent on their insurance. In some ways, they’re addicted to it. And that’s a hard mindset to shift. But I can honestly say that choosing DPC has been the best decision for my health.

Dr. Angela (closing):
I really appreciated Tom’s honesty and passion in this conversation. This wasn’t a topic I expected us to cover during the interview, but I’m so glad we did.

If you want to learn more about Direct Primary Care, feel free to email us at info@seedsofhealthdpc.com or visit our website:
🌱 www.seedsofhealthdpc.com

You can also explore national resources and directories here:
 🔍 DPC Frontier Mapper – Find a DPC practice near you
🗺 DPC Alliance Directory – Certified DPC doctors
📚 Learn more about DPC – via the AAFP

Thanks for listening—and take care!