Should You Switch to a Direct Care Podiatry Model?

Can you really drop insurance and still thrive as a podiatrist? In this episode of Podiatry Practice Mastery, I interview Dr. Grace Torres-Hodges to explore the ins and outs of transitioning to a direct care model. We discuss how she left traditional insurance-based practice behind, how she structures her pricing, the misconceptions about cash-based care, and why direct care could be a game-changer for patient relationships and revenue growth.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow Dr. Grace transitioned from insurance-based care to a thriving direct care modelThe financial and patient-care benefits of a cash-based practiceCommon misconceptions about direct care and how to overcome themStrategies for setting prices, bundling services, and offering patient-friendly optionsPractical advice for doctors considering a switchWhy You Should ListenIf you’ve ever wondered whether going direct care could work for your podiatry practice, this episode breaks down the real challenges, financial considerations, and long-term benefits. Learn how to regain control, improve patient relationships, and increase profitability while reducing administrative headaches.Key Topics Covered[0:03] Introducing Dr. Grace Torres-Hodges and the direct care discussion[1:00] Grace’s journey from insurance-based practice to direct care[2:12] How quality measures and insurance constraints shaped her decision[3:36] Rebuilding the doctor-patient relationship under direct care[4:48] Understanding pricing transparency and bundled services[5:54] How procedures and billing differ in a cash-based model[7:13] Managing patient expectations and out-of-network reimbursements[8:42] Monthly memberships vs. fee-for-service in direct care[10:36] Steps to transition smoothly from insurance to direct care[13:02] How to analyze payer reimbursements before dropping plans[15:00] Handling Medicare and high-deductible plans strategically[17:01] Performing surgeries under a direct care model[18:03] Mentorship and one-on-one guidance for doctors considering direct care[18:43] Dr. Grace’s book Private Practice Solution and resources for doctors👉 Listen now to learn how to successfully transition into a direct care podiatry model and regain control over your practice!Learn more about direct care practicePractice: https://www.torreshodgespodiatry.comPhysician Consulting: https://d2pmedicus.square.site/Book: on Amazon: https://a.co/d/cfI54VN