The San Antonio Free Market Medical Association (FMMA) advocates for medical care delivery based on free-market principles. One of the ways they achieve this goal is by promoting the use of Direct Primary Care, a model that allows doctors and patients to have a direct relationship without the involvement of insurance companies. Under this model, patients pay a monthly fee to their doctors for primary care services, which can lead to more affordable and personalized care. Not only do patients benefit from the cost savings and personalized care of Direct Primary Care, but employers can also benefit from this model by potentially reducing their healthcare costs and improving the health of their employees.
The San Antonio FMMA hosts quarterly meetings to educate the public about free market models in healthcare and to promote them as an alternative to the traditional system. The goal of the latest meeting, “An Employer’s Journey to Affordable Health,” was to inform attendees and raise awareness about Direct Primary Care, a model that can offer numerous benefits to both patients and doctors.
SHANKX Healthcare Marketing was a proud sponsor of the San Antonio FMMA’s latest quarterly meeting, “An Employer’s Journey to Affordable Health.” The event was led by Dr. Roger Moczygemba, President and founder of Direct Med Clinic, and CEO of SHANKX, Shankar Poncelet, who serve as the leaders of the San Antonio FMMA Chapter. Dr. Moczygemba served as the moderator while Shankar acted as the emcee and ensured that virtual attendees had access to the livestream on all available platforms.
For this meeting, the panel was made up entirely of employers who actively use Direct Primary Care in their company’s health plans, this included:
- President of Cox Manufacturing Co., Bill Cox.
- Janice Brewster Martinez, Director of HR at Texas Disposal Systems
- Dr. Cliff Porter, Physician and Owner of Texas Direct Medical Care
How to Make An Effective Panel Discussion
A panel discussion at a conference with employers and healthcare professionals is effective in:
- Providing a forum for employers and healthcare professionals to discuss challenges and opportunities related to healthcare in the workplace.
During the Q&A portion of the event, employers had the opportunity to share their questions, concerns, and interest in incorporating Direct Primary Care (DPC) into their company’s health plan. The panelists, who were experts in the field, provided support and clarity to help employers understand the benefits of this model and how to make the transition. Janice, one of the panelists, emphasized the importance of starting with a conversation with the HR department as the first step towards implementing DPC in a company’s health plan. She emphasized that HR professionals can provide valuable guidance and resources to help employers navigate the process and make informed decisions.
- Examining different approaches to providing healthcare benefits to employees and the pros and cons of each approach.
Throughout the evening, the panelists emphasized the many advantages of the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model compared to the traditional healthcare system. They highlighted the increased accessibility of DPC, which allows patients to have more frequent and convenient visits with their primary care doctors. This is especially useful in times of need or for managing chronic conditions, as patients can receive timely and personalized care without having to navigate the complex and often slow process of traditional healthcare. The panelists also emphasized the cost savings of DPC, as patients typically pay a fixed monthly fee rather than paying for each individual service or office visit. This can be especially beneficial for those who do not have insurance or who have high deductibles. The panelists emphasized that DPC can lead to better outcomes, more efficient care, and increased patient satisfaction.
- Sharing best practices and case studies of successful employer-provided healthcare programs.
Janice, who is the head of the HR department at her workplace, shared her firsthand experience of implementing Direct Primary Care (DPC) in her company’s health plan. She talked about how she discovered DPC and the benefits it has offered to her personally. Janice also shared how the switch to DPC has impacted her workplace and the people she works with. She emphasized that employees have embraced the model and have found it more accessible and convenient than the traditional healthcare system. Janice also talked about the cost savings and improved health outcomes that her company has experienced since implementing DPC. Overall, Janice emphasized the many benefits of DPC for both employers and employees, and encouraged other employers to consider making the switch.
- Facilitating a dialogue between employers and healthcare professionals about the needs and preferences of employees when it comes to healthcare benefits.
The meeting focused on transparency, with employers and employees openly sharing their concerns, questions, and personal experiences with both the traditional healthcare system and Direct Primary Care. The attendees were candid about their challenges and frustrations with the traditional system, and expressed their desire to make a change for themselves and their employees. The goal of the meeting was to provide a safe and open space for attendees to learn about DPC and to explore whether it could be a viable alternative for their healthcare needs.
- Identifying trends and issues in the healthcare industry that may impact employers and employees.
The meeting featured a panel of professionals who were knowledgeable about the quirks and flaws of the healthcare industry and how Direct Primary Care can address these issues. The panelists shared their insights and expertise on DPC and how it can offer a more efficient and affordable healthcare model for employers and employees. In addition to discussing DPC, the panelists also provided valuable insights and perspectives on the healthcare journey of consumers and how DPC can improve their experience. The panel discussion provided a productive and informative exchange of ideas and information related to healthcare in the workplace.
Why You Should Belong to a Healthcare Association
There are several potential advantages to belonging to a healthcare association:
Networking and connections
Belonging to a healthcare association can provide access to a network of professionals and organizations within the healthcare industry. In addition to the educational and informational benefits of belonging to a healthcare association, membership can also provide access to a network of professionals and organizations within the industry. This can be a valuable resource for building relationships and connections that can lead to new business opportunities. For example, healthcare associations often host events and conferences, such as this evening’s event, that provide opportunities for networking and connecting with other professionals and organizations. By participating in these events and actively engaging with the association’s community, members can expand their network and gain access to valuable resources and connections that can help their businesses grow and succeed.
Industry knowledge and resources
The Free Market Medical Association provides members with access to industry-specific knowledge, research, and resources. This can help you stay up-to-date on trends and developments within the healthcare industry, which can be valuable for creating effective marketing campaigns and crucial for staying competitive. For example, access to industry reports, research studies, and other information can help members understand the latest trends and best practices in healthcare marketing. We hold events, online and in-person, that can help members improve their skills and knowledge in the field that can help members succeed in their careers and businesses.
Professional development and training
Many healthcare associations offer training and professional development opportunities for their members. This can help marketing agencies stay current on industry best practices and improve the skills and expertise of their team members.
Credibility and reputation
Membership in a reputable healthcare association, such as the Free Market Medical Association (FMMA), can help to establish credibility and build a positive reputation within the industry. This can be especially valuable for agencies or people that are new to the field or looking to differentiate themselves from competitors. By belonging to well-respected associations, you demonstrate your commitment to excellence and dedication to staying current on industry best practices. This can help to build trust and credibility with clients and partners, and can set you apart from competitors in a competitive marketplace.
Membership in a healthcare association provides valuable resources, opportunities for professional development, and enhances credibility and reputation.
We believe that the work we do in San Antonio Free Market Medical Association can be a valuable resource for healthcare professionals who are committed to advancing free market principles. We hope you will consider joining SHANKX as we work to promote a more efficient and effective healthcare system through free market models.
Sign up to become a member at sanantoniofmma.org, or for more information, contact shankar@shankxwebdev.com.