Group Medical Visits: The Future of Healthcare
At OnePeak Medical, we believe in providing our patients a unique wellness experience that redefines primary care through innovative, integrated health practices and services geared toward optimal health and well-being. We are always looking for new ways to provide resources and education, remove access barriers, increase patient satisfaction, and ultimately get better, faster outcomes for our patients.
One of our recent initiatives spearheaded by OnePeak Medical founder, Nisha Jackson, Ph.D., MS, NP, HHP, was the launch of Group Medical Visits. These visits are designed to educate and empower patients, equipping them with the tools needed to achieve optimal health.
Group Medical Visits have been successfully adopted in a variety of healthcare settings and have proven to be an effective way of delivering high-quality care. This approach offers many additional benefits for patients through increased time with a provider, expanded education, support among other participants, and the opportunity to navigate their health with confidence.
What are Group Medical Visits?
A Group Medical Visit, also known as a shared medical appointment or drop-in group medical appointment (DIGMA), is an opportunity for multiple patients with similar health concerns to be seen as a group, often for follow-up care or management of chronic conditions. These visits are voluntary for patients and provide elements of traditional one-on-one appointments with group interactions, creating a collaborative and supportive environment for patients.
Benefits of Group Medical Visits
Our patient-centered approach offers numerous advantages for both patients and medical providers.
Comprehensive Care
At OnePeak Medical, we provide patients with a holistic approach to healthcare that goes beyond the limitations of individual appointments. Our Group Medical Visits are designed to address a wide range of health topics including hormone balance, nutrition, weight management, stress reduction, and more. These sessions delve into the root causes of health issues, empowering patients with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their well-being. Recent group visits showcase the breadth of our comprehensive care approach, covering diverse topics from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and menopause to sleep and stress management.
One of the fundamental challenges in individual appointments is the limited time available to cover all aspects of a patient’s health concerns. Patients often need more attention, support, and information than can be accommodated within an office visit. This can lead to a sense of frustration and disconnect, especially for those with chronic diseases, like diabetes or heart disease, who may require ongoing guidance and management. Without adequate support and information, patients may feel that no one is listening or making the effort to explain things clearly. Unfortunately, these patients often become “high utilizers” of emergency departments and urgent care clinics because the system of care didn’t provide them with the tools, support, and information they needed to manage their condition.
In contrast, OnePeak Medical’s Group Medical Visits are often 45 to 90 minutes, allowing ample time for education, interaction, and thorough discussions within the group. This extended appointment format enables us to delve into not just medical assessments and education but also lifestyle factors and emotional support. By taking a holistic view of health, our providers can develop personalized care plans that address the root causes of health issues, leading to more thorough and effective treatment strategies.
Additionally, our group visits prioritize continuity of care and ongoing support. Follow-up plans, including additional appointments with medical providers, ongoing group sessions, and access to additional resources, ensure that patients receive continuous guidance and assistance beyond the first group visit. This comprehensive approach fosters a sense of empowerment, accountability, and partnership in managing one’s health, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction with their overall experience at OnePeak Medical.
Community Support
Participating in Group Medical Visits offers patients a unique opportunity to gain insights and support beyond what a single healthcare provider can typically provide. In this collaborative setting, patients often feel more motivated and supported by fellow participants, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual encouragement. This shared experience not only helps combat social isolation related to specific diagnoses or concerns but also reduces stigmas associated with seeking care. By involving partners, family members, or friends during group visits, social support is further enhanced, creating a stronger sense of community, and fostering a supportive environment.
Witnessing medical providers engage with other participants during group sessions allows patients to build trust and receive answers to questions they may not have considered. Providers also gain valuable insights into meeting individual and collective needs, contributing to a more personalized and effective approach to patient care. The shared experiences, peer interactions, and mutual encouragement within the group environment contribute to a supportive and empowering atmosphere, reducing feelings of isolation, increasing motivation, and enhancing overall well-being for participants.
Group Medical Visits introduces patients to a wealth of knowledge beyond what healthcare providers can offer one-on-one. The collective wisdom, stemming from shared experiences and insights among peers, creates a robust support network that enhances patient engagement and fosters accountability. This network extends beyond the clinic, offering ongoing encouragement and motivation in managing health challenges and maintaining a positive outlook.
These visits are crafted to be dynamic and engaging, offering interactive discussions and educational materials. This format encourages active participation from patients, who contribute by sharing their experiences, asking questions, and learning from each other. These sessions also provide practical strategies and insights to improve health and quality of life, empowering patients to take charge. Additionally, the specialized support provided for chronic conditions in group visits is instrumental in helping patients manage long-term health challenges, cultivating a sense of empowerment and resilience.
Expert Guidance and Support
At OnePeak Medical, every Group Medical Visit is facilitated by our team of expert healthcare providers and Fitness & Nutrition Advisors. These experienced professionals ensure that you receive the guidance and support necessary to take back control of your health. Each expert plays a pivotal role in these sessions, leading discussions, offering guidance and education, and addressing individual patient needs within the group setting.
One of the key strengths of these visits is their highly informative nature. During these sessions, our medical providers utilize their expertise to educate patients on a wide range of health topics. From combatting fatigue and brain fog to hypothyroidism hacks, patients gain valuable knowledge and insights that allow them to make informed decisions about their care.
The interactive format of group visits enhances the learning experience for patients. Through engaging discussions, interactive activities, and Q&A sessions, participants can delve deeper into health-related topics and seek clarification on any questions they may have. Additionally, access to educational materials further supports the learning process, providing patients with resources to reinforce their understanding and promote ongoing self-care.
By participating in these visits, patients not only gain a deeper understanding of their health but also feel empowered to actively engage in their care. The guidance and support provided by our experts create a collaborative and supportive environment where patients can ask questions, share experiences, and learn from each other’s insights. Overall, Group Medical Visits at OnePeak Medical are designed to inform, empower, and inspire patients on their journey to optimal health and well-being.
Increased Patient Engagement
Group Medical Visits have the ability to revolutionize healthcare by fostering a dynamic environment of shared knowledge and experiences. Patients participating in these sessions gain a greater understanding of their health conditions and treatment options through collective insights and discussions. This collaborative approach not only enhances patient education but also promotes active engagement among participants, creating an interactive and immersive healthcare experience.
The interactive nature of these visits is a cornerstone of their effectiveness and success. Through group activities, open discussions, and shared experiences, patients not only learn from experienced healthcare professionals but also from each other. This exchange of information and perspectives leads to a broader understanding of health-related topics, encourages accountability, and instills a sense of ownership over one’s health journey.
Patient Empowerment
Group Medical Visits play a key role in empowering patients to take charge of their health. By actively involving patients in their healthcare decisions and encouraging self-care, these visits foster a sense of ownership among individuals. Participants are not just passive recipients of care but active participants in shaping their future and well-being. This active involvement instills a sense of control and autonomy, enabling patients to make informed decisions about their health and treatment plans.
Although we’ve already touched on this, education is an important aspect of the group visits when empowering patients. Participants gain valuable insights into various health topics, treatment options, self-care strategies, and preventive measures. Our healthcare providers use these sessions to deliver educational content in a format that encourages active participation and knowledge retention. By arming patients with knowledge and skills, group visits empower them to make informed decisions, manage their conditions effectively, and adopt healthier lifestyles.
Tips for Making the Most of Group Medical Visits
Preparing for a Group Medical Visit involves more than just showing up; it’s about actively engaging, seeking clarity, and embracing new perspectives. Here are three tips to help you make the most of your group visit experience:
- Active Participation: Engage during group discussions by sharing your experiences, asking questions, and contributing insights. Actively participating not only enhances your learning but also enriches the collective knowledge and experiences within the group. Your input can spark valuable discussions and lead to deeper insights into your health concerns.
- Prepare Questions: Before the group visit, take some time to write down any questions or concerns you have about your health. This additional preparation ensures that you make the most of the visit by addressing specific issues that are important to you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions during the session, as it’s an opportunity to gain clarity and understanding from experts and fellow participants.
- Stay Open-Minded: Approach the group visit with an open mind and a willingness to learn from others. Listen to different perspectives and experiences shared by participants, as they may offer valuable insights or alternative approaches to managing health conditions. Being open-minded fosters collaboration, empathy, and a supportive atmosphere within the group, enhancing the overall experience for everyone involved.
These strategies will increase your understanding and contribute to a collaborative and supportive environment during the visit.
Learn More
Through active involvement, collaboration, education, and support, OnePeak Medical’s Group Medical Visits empower individuals to become active participants in their health and well-being, leading to better overall outcomes and quality of life.
Interested in attending one of our upcoming group visits? Check out the highlight videos for each session and register online today.
Group Medical Visits are covered by most insurance.