We all have a story to tell. This is mine.
I grew up in Family Medicine. It is in my blood. It is my Heritage.
My father practiced Family Medicine at a small community clinic for over 30 years. At the end of his career, his love for work rapidly declined, he discouraged me from following his path. Instead of loving his work he was so passionate about, he grew to dread it.
This too became my story.
After 4 years working alongside my Father, the pressures and stresses of the job took its toll and my enthusiasm for providing compassionate care started to die. Visits grew shorter, computer work became the focus, care became less personal as a result. Think back to a recent visit with your doctor, you too have experienced this. They have less time to spend with you, more paperwork to do, and spend much of the visit staring at a computer screen. The sad truth is Doctors are required to spend more and more time appeasing insurance companies to get paid, which directly impacts the patient’s they serve.
Our health system is broken. But there is hope. Enter Direct Primary Care.
After some research, I found a phenomenal network of primary care doctors on the cutting edge of healthcare reform practicing Direct Primary Care. Instead of jumping through the hoops setup by the insurance groups and government agencies, they started membership based clinics. Think of it like a health care co-op. The doctors are directly supported by the patients they serve. Less paperwork means more time with patients. Fewer staff means patients can call their doctor directly for advice. Paying a doctor directly means a price that anyone can afford.
Welcome to Heritage Family Medicine.
My passion for caring for patients and developing lasting relationships is now a reality. I have 60 minutes for most visits. I text or e-mail my patients medical advice when they need it. I am available for same day or next day visits to take care of urgent medical needs. I even do home visits. My Heritage is now here in Hood River, serving a community that has given my Family and I so much. We are accepting new patients of all ages and stages of life who want a personal and meaningful relationship with a doctor they trust. Give me a call and we can schedule a free meet and greet visit today, I look forward to meeting you!
Dr. Neal
