Plum Health Blog
Dr. Paul Thomas Gives the Welcome to Detroit Lecture for Incoming Class of 2027 at WSU SOM
Dr. Paul Thomas Gives the Welcome to Detroit Lecture for Incoming Class of 2027 at WSU SOM
This year, Dr. Paul Thomas was invited to give a “Welcome to Detroit” lecture for the Wayne State University School of Medicine Class of 2027. These medical students will be immersed in the Detroit community over the next 4 years, and upon graduation, many of them will continue to serve the Detroit and Metro Detroit community.
WSU SOM’s incoming class of 2026 had 300 Students, with 192 in-state and 108 out-of-state students. That class had 22 birth countries and 94 different colleges represented. The 2027 class is likely similar but their demographic data isn’t readily available online.
That being said, the vast majority of these students are experiencing Detroit for the first time. The lecture given by Dr. Paul Thomas highlights important moments in Detroit history, from its founding through the Arsenal of Democracy, through 1967, municipal bankruptcy, and today. It also discusses cultural events, the best coffee shops to study, the best parks to relax and unwind, and the best restaurants for a student budget and for when parents or loved ones come to town for a special occasion.
A short guide for new visitors to Detroit and also for new professional students in Detroit, like medical students or law students at institutions like Wayne State University or the University of Detroit.
So here are the best coffee shops in Detroit for 2023:
Lucky Detroit in Corktown
Momento Gelato in Corktown (great coffee and paninis and gelato)
James Oliver in Corktown (amazing bagel sandwiches and great coffee selection)
Dessert Oasis in Capitol Park
Rosa in Grandmont Rosedale
Oloman Café in Hamtramck
Cafe 1923 in Hamtramck
MadCap in Downtown
The Congregation in New Center/Virginia Park
Milwaukee Caffe in New Center
Anthology Coffee in Eastern Market
Skin Tag Removal at Plum Health DPC
Skin tag on the bra line - ouch! And irritating 😠
Many women have skin tags along the bra line and many men have skin tags on the belt line that get irritated 😤 when taking off and putting on clothing
Sometimes they can bleed 🩸 and sometimes they can be painful. Overall, it’s just a nuisance.
At our Plum Health clinic, removing skin tags like this takes less than 20 minutes. ⏰
We use a a small amount of lidocaine with epinephrine to numb the area and limit bleeding 💉 and then we use a dermablade to remove the lesion
That skin tag is then sent to pathology to rule out cancer - this tissue was found to be benign, a seborrheic keratosis 🔬
Pathology costs are $75 per sample and sometimes covered by insurance. 💵
If you’re living with an annoying skin tag, schedule an appointment with us this week to get it removed 💯
#PlumHealth #directprimarycare #skintag #healthcare #detroit #familymedicine
The Positive Impact of Direct Primary Care on Employer Healthcare Spending
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, Direct Primary Care and Subscription-based Primary Care are emerging as promising models that could significantly benefit both employers and employees. Studies conducted by the Society of Actuaries (SOA) and Milliman provide valuable insights into these new models of healthcare delivery and financing.
DPC and Subscription-based Primary Care are healthcare delivery models where a provider offers unlimited specified routine healthcare services for a monthly fee. These models simplify the healthcare business by removing insurance companies from basic primary care. In exchange for a monthly, out-of-pocket fee, patients have unrestricted access to their physician and unlimited access to a defined package of services.
The potential benefits of these models for employers are vast. One of the key advantages is that they may provide employees and dependents with increased access to primary and urgent care services, from the same provider at no cost. This could also include access to no-cost or low-cost basic labs and prescription drugs.
Moreover, these models could lead to lower absenteeism rates among employees. This is because appointments can generally be scheduled at almost any time and wait times at the office are usually shorter. This flexibility can significantly improve the work-life balance for employees and increase their overall job satisfaction.
The SOA study provides some interesting data points. For instance, it shows that DPC can lead to a decrease in healthcare costs in various areas. The unadjusted DPC vs. traditional healthcare cost differences show a decrease of 12.78% for inpatient total costs, 49.81% for outpatient emergency department costs, and 28.05% for other outpatient costs.
The Milliman study further elaborates on the distribution channels for subscription-based primary care products. These channels include direct-to-consumer, direct-to-employer, and direct-to-payer. The study emphasizes that these models can address both the needs of enhancing consumer access to care, quality of care, and satisfaction with their overall care journey, as well as affecting an employer’s total cost of care.
The Milliman study also highlights the Pareto Principle, which states that 80% of healthcare expenditures come from 20% of patients. This principle is instructive for the design of primary care products, especially those targeting the majority cohort with limited and more transient healthcare needs.
Furthermore, the study provides a snapshot of the sources of health insurance coverage in the United States. As of 2019, 49.6% of the population was covered by employer-sponsored group insurance, 19.8% by Medicaid, 14.2% by Medicare, 5.9% by non-group (i.e., individual), and 1.4% by military. However, 9.2% of the population remained uninsured. These figures are important to consider when designing healthcare products, as consumers with different sources of coverage (or no coverage) have different experiences when they access and pay for healthcare.
Lastly, the study discusses the Quadruple Aim in healthcare, a set of principles many purchasers of healthcare consider a north star. The Quadruple Aim includes better health outcomes, improved patient experience, lower health costs, and improved clinician experience. A successful primary care product should meet these aims.
Despite the challenges, the potential upside of DPC and Subscription-based Primary Care for both employers and employees is significant. For employers, it can lead to lower healthcare costs and increased productivity. For employees, it can mean better access to healthcare, lower out-of-pocket expenses, and improved health outcomes. The SOA and Milliman studies provide a comprehensive evaluation of these models, highlighting their potential to transform the healthcare landscape. As more employers consider implementing these models, it's crucial to understand the potential benefits and challenges associated with these innovative models.
For more detailed insights, you can access the full studies here and here.
Detroit Air Quality Update June 29th 2023
Detroit Air Quality Update June 29th 2023
Unfortunately, today the air quality is 157 - 184, which is unhealthy.
What is the typical air quality?
The typical air quality index is closer to 30. This is an acceptable level of air quality where the air feels good, with no smoke, smog, or haze in the air. Visibility is good and asthma exacerbations happen with fewer frequency.
what is the air quality like today?
With a level of 150 to 200, like today, the air quality is unhealthy. Everyone may begin to experience health effects. Members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects. This poor air quality index is due to smoke particular matter wafting down from wildfires in Canada.
What you should do
Today, and on unhealthy air quality days, limit your outdoor activities and wear an N95 mask so that you don't breathe in the particulate matter. Unfortunately, these small particles can get into our lungs, into our blood stream, and can cross our blood brain barrier.
There are several ill health effects that can happen with prolonged exposure to poor air quality. Cities like Mumbai (formerly called Bombay), India have poor, unhealthy, and hazardous air quality on a regular basis, so there is more research in cities like this. From that data, the UN Environmental Programme released a compelling report. You can read the whole report, but the key health info starts on page 55, don’t miss page 61, 62, 63. Here are some of the key findings:
A wildfire event can cause feelings of confusion, anger, fear, and loss, all of which can have long-term impacts on the people and communities that experience them.
There are indications that people can also suffer psychological distress from losing a valued landscape due to a wildfire or as a result of long periods of smoke exposure
Particles (from wildfire smoke) may cause oxidative stress in brain cells
Particles can cross from the circulatory system to the central nervous system (into the brain) and impair it
Particles can cross the gas-blood barrier in the lung and reach the circulatory system
Particles can deliver harmful chemicals into the blood (Carbon monoxide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon)
Fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs causing an impact on the respiratory system (e.g., asthma, COPD*)
Particles can induce oxidative stress response in lung cells
I spoke to the media about this two weeks ago via Daily Detroit This is a podcast and my interview is in the second half of the podcast.
💨 Keep doors and windows closed on unhealthy air quality days
💨 Use a HEPA filter at your home or work place
💨 Plan on indoor activities
💨 Limit strenuous activities out doors when there are unhealthy air quality days - the more vigorous your exercise intensity out doors, the more particulate matter you breathe in, and therefore the more oxidate stress in your lungs, brain, and body
💨 Indoor vacuuming can stir up dust in your home, so limit vacuuming on days like these.
💨 Avoid activities that increase indoor pollution, such as burning candles, using gas stoves, and vacuuming.
The California Air Resource Board has more great tips, here.
Vulnerable groups
If you have a cardiac or pulmonary condition (asthma, COPD, heart disease) or if you are immunocompromised (receiving cancer treatments, pregnant), then I strongly recommend limiting any time outside today.
If you do go outside, I recommend wearing a mask, ideally an N95.
In general, for all patients, I recommend limiting the amount of time outside today or wearing a mask if outside, ideally an N95. As in the figure below, an N95 is recommended when the air quality is unhealthy (red).
Stay safe, and have a great weekend,
- Paul
Misconceptions of Employer Sponsored Direct Primary Care (DPC)
Direct Primary Care (DPC) has emerged as a viable, high-quality primary care model that liberates itself from the constraints of traditional fee-for-service (FFS) products. Employers are increasingly finding that DPC offers a personalized doctor-patient relationship, comprehensive preventive care, and overall cost savings.
In spite of the clear advantages of DPC, there are several misconceptions that employers might harbor. We're here to shed light on the top 5 misconceptions concerning DPC for employers, focusing on Plum Health’s DPC model.
Misconception #1: DPC Adds Extra Costs to Existing Health Insurance
The fact is, for employers operating self-funded programs, the DPC investment redirects claims costs. As employees change their healthcare usage behavior, both primary and specialty care claims decrease. Easy access and relationship-driven care minimize long-term healthcare expenses and cut down on unnecessary urgent care and emergency room visits.
Thus, DPC forms a better long-term investment focused on preventive care, as opposed to only treating patients post-diagnosis.
Misconception #2: DPC Mandates a Switch in Primary Care Providers (PCP)
Employees aren't required to change their PCP under the employer-sponsored DPC model. DPC can be offered as an optional benefit, providing a convenient, preventive care solution that removes the common deterrents to seeking care.
DPC clinics provide members with:
Personalized, preventive care
Management of chronic conditions
No co-pays or insurance billing
Treatment of ailments and illnesses
Same-day appointments and no wait times
Unlimited appointment lengths
24/7 access to care
Exams, labs, and testing
Specialist referrals, as necessary
And much more...
If you have a great relationship with your PCP, keep it! Sadly, up to 80% do not.
Misconception #3: DPC Necessitates Insurance Plan Integration or Can Only Be Offered at Renewal
Employer-based DPC models usually function independently of insurance and the FFS model. Membership can be offered anytime, and employees can join at their convenience.
Overall, DPC replaces insurance-based, FFS products with a patient-centric, relationship-driven model of care where the interests align with the patient and employer.
Please note, there are various DPC models, each with different insurance relationships. We invite you to speak with a member of our team for more information.
Misconception #4: Geographically Dispersed Companies Can't Implement DPC
Healthcare delivery varies by market. Factors such as insurance carriers, network, hospital system(s), plan structure, location, and demographics play crucial roles.
Many employers opt to offer a DPC practice in locations with a high concentration of employees. Virtual access to the "company doctor" is a convenient solution for remote employees. On average, 60-80% of employees will enroll in the first 1-3 years. Additionally, DPC doctors can contract with other DPC doctors out of their region to handle any employees that are near the contracted doctor’s location.
Misconception #5: All DPC Models Are Identical
It's crucial to understand that DPC models are as diverse as they are innovative. Key components like vendors, location, delivery, scope of care, and pricing vary among DPC practices.
In conclusion, as your company contemplates implementing a DPC model, remember:
Finding the right Doctor is essential
Healthcare delivery is unique by market
The scope of services can vary
Insurance may still be necessary, depending on the model you choose
Membership fee structures differ
Primary care is a small investment that yields substantial returns in overall care costs. Access to high-quality medical care is critical for your employees and your organization's health.
Plum Health can help you establish a customized DPC solution, track its impact on employee health and company finances, monitor metrics such as claim reductions, enhanced employee engagement, and improved chronic disease prevention and management.
Get started by contacting us today.
Discover Direct Primary Care: An Excellent Choice for Uninsured, Underinsured, and High Deductible Health Plan Holders - Detroit and Royal Oak
Dr. Raquel Orlich treats a Plum Health member
Are you a self-employed individual, uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in a high deductible catastrophic health plan in the Detroit or Royal Oak area? Perhaps a plan from the Healthcare.gov marketplace? Plum Health DPC has a primary care solution designed just for you:
Embrace the Benefits of Direct Primary Care
Direct Primary Care is a membership-based healthcare model that emphasizes a direct relationship between patient and doctor. Here's why DPC with Plum Health is an excellent choice for you:
Affordability: DPC comes at a flat, predictable monthly fee, ensuring budget-friendly healthcare without the worry of surprise bills or meeting high deductibles.
Convenience and Accessibility: Located centrally in Detroit and easily reachable for Royal Oak residents, we offer extended office hours and same-day or next-day appointments.
Transparent Pricing: With DPC, you know exactly what you're paying for - no hidden costs, no complicated insurance bills.
Personalized Care: As a DPC member at Plum Health, you receive care that's tailored to your specific needs, perfect for self-employed individuals and those without traditional insurance who require flexibility.
Dr. Paul Thomas performs a child’s vision test in our Corktown location
Pairing DPC with High Deductible Health Plans and Healthshare Services
DPC at Plum Health pairs exceptionally well with high deductible health plans. While your insurance covers significant events, DPC takes care of routine healthcare needs affordably.
If you choose not to use insurance at all, there are alternatives like a medical cost-sharing or health share service, for wrap-around coverage. Health shares cover larger medical expenses outside the scope of DPC and even offers a 15% discount to members who have a DPC membership with Plum Health.
Join the Plum Health DPC Family Today
Join the Plum Health DPC family and start enjoying a fresh, personalized approach to healthcare. We're proud to serve uninsured, underinsured, and high deductible health plan holders in the Metro Detroit and Royal Oak, Michigan area. Ready to transform your healthcare experience? Reach out to learn more about our services or to book an appointment:
Please note: DPC is a membership-based model of care designed to cover up to 90% of a typical person's healthcare needs. It's not insurance but complements various insurance and health share plans to provide comprehensive coverage. This blog post is a general informational guide and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any medical condition or health concern.
Dr. Paul Thomas Speaks at the Dr. Morris S. Brent Lectureship
This month, Dr. Paul Thomas spoke at the Dr. Morris S. Brent Lectureship, a part of the Wayne State University School of Medicine’s Alumni Reunion Weekend activities. In the lecture, Dr. Paul Thomas discussed best practices for personal branding, and why it is important for doctors to become physician leaders, and build the platforms that can help them educate other doctors and the community about important issues in medicine.
This session will focus on developing a personal brand for physicians. What is a personal brand? How can you leverage your personal brand to attract new patients? How can you own your own brand and content? These topics and more will be addressed in this session!
Dr. Paul Thomas talks about Personal Branding at the WSU SOM Alumni Reunion Weekend during the Morris S. Brent Lectureship.
To watch the full lecture, head to the 2:14 (2 hour, 14 minute) mark in the YouTube video below:
Dr. Paul Thomas is a Proud Graduate of Wayne State University School of Medicine Class of 2013
This month, Dr. Paul Thomas attended the Class of 2013 Alumni Reunion Weekend. Dr. Thomas graduated from Wayne State University School of Medicine in 2013 - thereafter, he completed his residence at Oakwood/Beaumont Family Medicine Residency Program, and then started Plum Health DPC in November 2016.
Time flies when you’re practicing medicine - the days are long but the years are short. As physicians, we put our all into taking care of other people and making sure people in our community stay healthy. The School of Medicine’s Mission is as follows:
We will educate a diverse student body in an urban setting and within a culture of inclusion, through high-quality education, clinical excellence, pioneering research, local investment in our community and innovative technology, to prepare physician and biomedical scientific leaders to achieve health and wellness for our society.
It’s refreshing to connect with a group of doctors who share these values - all striving to improve the health and wellness of our community. I’m forever grateful to have been immersed in the culture of WSU SOM and my experiences there informed how I practice today and in the future at my practice, Plum Health DPC.
Plum Health DPC Featured on CBS Detroit
Plum Health DPC: A New Era of Healthcare Delivery
Recently, Plum Health DPC, a direct primary care practice in Corktown, was featured on CBS Detroit, showcasing its innovative approach to healthcare delivery. The segment highlighted the many benefits of this new model, which is quickly gaining popularity among patients who are seeking a more personalized and cost-effective alternative to traditional insurance-based healthcare.
What is Direct Primary Care?
Direct primary care is a model of healthcare delivery that eliminates the middleman, i.e., insurance companies, and provides patients with direct access to their primary care physicians. In this model, patients pay a monthly membership fee to receive comprehensive, preventive care and access to their physician whenever they need it, without the need for insurance.
Benefits of Direct Primary Care
The benefits of direct primary care are numerous, including lower costs, improved access to care, and more personalized attention from physicians. With direct primary care, patients can see their physician at any time, without the need for appointments or copays, and receive the care they need, when they need it. Additionally, direct primary care physicians are incentivized to keep their patients healthy, rather than to perform tests and procedures, as is often the case in insurance-based healthcare.
Plum Health DPC: A Leader in Direct Primary Care
Plum Health DPC is a leader in the direct primary care movement, offering its patients a unique, affordable, and personalized approach to healthcare. With its state-of-the-art facilities and experienced physicians, Plum Health DPC is dedicated to providing its patients with the care they need to stay healthy and thrive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recent feature on CBS Detroit highlights the many benefits of direct primary care and the innovative approach of Plum Health DPC. With its cost-effective and personalized approach to healthcare, direct primary care is poised to become the new standard in healthcare delivery. If you're looking for a more affordable, accessible, and personalized alternative to traditional insurance-based healthcare, consider joining Plum Health DPC today!
Thanks for reading,
-Dr. Paul Thomas with Plum Health DPC
Dr. Paul Thomas on the Soul of Enterprise
Dr. Paul Thomas on the Soul of Enterprise
In February 2022, Dr. Paul Thomas was featured in an episode of The Soul of Enterprise with Ron Baker and Ed Kless. In the episode we discuss all things Direct Primary Care! and they plug my book, Startup DPC:
Dr. Paul WROTE THE BOOK on Direct Primary Care. It’s called Startup DPC. Ron recommends this book because you can learn a lot from Dr. Paul’s experience. Here’s the Amazon link.
Dr. Paul Thomas is a family medicine physician who started Plum Health DPC in 2016, right out of residency. He is a board-certified Family Medicine Physician.
Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a model of primary care that is growing in popularity as an alternative to the traditional fee-for-service model. In a DPC practice, patients pay a monthly or annual membership fee for access to comprehensive primary care services. This fee typically covers all office visits and DPC practices offer at-cost medications, lab work, and imaging services to lower the cost of care for patients.
One of the benefits of DPC is that it allows for more time for the physician to spend with each patient. This is because DPC practices typically have fewer patients than traditional practices, which allows for more personalized care. Additionally, DPC patients often have direct access to their physician through phone or email, which can lead to quicker resolution of health concerns.
Another benefit of DPC is that it can help to lower healthcare costs for patients. By eliminating the need for insurance and reducing the number of unnecessary tests and procedures, DPC can save patients money in the long run.
Dr. Paul Thomas has been offering DPC services for the last 6 years and has seen positive results in the health of his patients. He believes that the DPC model allows for better continuity of care and a stronger physician-patient relationship, which leads to better health outcomes.
A big thanks to Ed Kless and Ron Baker for highlighting the work of Dr. Thomas and Plum Health DPC on The Soul of Enterprise!
-Paul Thomas MD with Startup DPC
Paul Thomas MD Featured in Michigan Academy of Family Physicians Magazine
Paul Thomas MD Featured in Michigan Academy of Family Physicians Magazine
A big thank you to the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians for featuring me and our family medicine colleagues with their recent cover story!
I love being a family medicine doctor - I get to take care of patients of all ages and stages, I get to manage a broad spectrum of medical conditions, and I get to build long-lasting relationships with amazing people in my community.
Family medicine is a medical speciality that requires 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school, and 3 years of residency training. With this 11 years of training, we're Family Medicine specialists!
Here's my quote from the recent publication:
“Starting and growing a direct primary care practice has changed my life. I’ve been able to serve people in my community with a high value family medicine service, advocate for causes that I feel passionate about, and be creative in my approach to solving people’s healthcare challenges.
"In short, I’ve been able to become the doctor I’m meant to be. The direct primary care model simplifies healthcare delivery in that our patients are able to text, email, or call us anytime.
"This takes a lot of the anxiety and stress out of the healthcare experience and our patients can seamlessly access the care that they need, when they need it.” - Paul Thomas, MD (Detroit)
#PlumHealth #DirectPrimaryCare #FamilyMedicine #HealthCare #Detroit #PrimaryCare #FamilyMedicineSpecialty #MAFP #AAFP #Corktown
What kind of medical conditions do Family Medicine Doctors take care of?
Family medicine doctors are primary care physicians who treat a wide range of medical conditions in patients of all ages. This can include common conditions such as the flu, colds, and injuries, as well as chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and asthma.
Family doctors also provide preventive care, including routine check-ups, immunizations, and screenings for conditions such as cancer and heart disease. In addition to treating physical health conditions, family medicine doctors may also provide care for mental health conditions and may coordinate care with specialists as needed.
Can Family Doctors take care of Mental Health Concerns?
Yes, family medicine doctors can treat mental health conditions. While they may not have the same level of training as a psychiatrist or psychologist, they are often the first point of contact for patients seeking help for mental health concerns. They can provide a range of services, including counseling, medication management, and referrals to specialists as needed. It is important to note that the specific mental health services provided by a family medicine doctor may vary depending on their training and experience.
Fortunately, our family medicine doctors at Plum Health DPC have robust training in primary care mental health concerns, like depression, anxiety, ADD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and others.
If you’d like this type of Family medicine service for yourself or for your family, you can sign up here:
A Brief History of Plum Health DPC
A Brief History of Plum Health DPC in Detroit
Plum Health DPC is a Family Medicine practice based in Detroit, Michigan that is dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable primary care to its patients. But where did it all begin? Here is a brief history of Plum Health DPC:
Plum Health DPC was founded in 2016 by Dr. Paul Thomas, a board-certified family medicine physician with a passion for improving healthcare for his patients. Dr. Thomas saw firsthand the challenges that patients faced when trying to navigate the traditional fee-for-service healthcare system, and he knew there had to be a better way.
That's when he discovered the direct primary care (DPC) model. In a DPC model, patients pay a monthly or annual fee for access to primary care services. This allows patients to have a close relationship with their primary care doctor and receive a wide range of medical services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and acute care.
Dr. Thomas was convinced that the DPC model was the future of healthcare, and he set out to create Plum Health DPC to bring this model to his patients in Detroit. Since its founding, Plum Health DPC has grown to serve thousands of patients in the Detroit area and has become a leader in the DPC movement.
Today, Plum Health DPC is committed to providing high-quality, affordable primary care to its patients and improving the healthcare system in Detroit and beyond. We are proud of our history and look forward to continuing to serve our community for years to come.
Laceration Repair and Other Urgent Care Services at Plum Health DPC
Laceration Repair and Other Urgent Care Services at Plum Health DPC
At Plum Health DPC, we understand that accidents and injuries can happen at any time, and we are here to help our patients when they need it most. Our team is equipped to handle a wide range of urgent care needs, including laceration repair.
Lacerations, or cuts, can range in severity from small, shallow wounds to deep, jagged injuries that require surgical repair. No matter the severity of the laceration, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent infection and minimize scarring.
At Plum Health DPC, our team is skilled in laceration repair and can provide the necessary care to help our patients heal quickly and properly. Depending on the location and severity of the laceration, we may use sutures (stitches) or adhesive skin closures to close the wound. We will also clean the wound and provide any necessary antibiotics to prevent infection.
Furthermore, if you haven’t had a recent TDaP booster (a tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis vaccine), we will provide you with this necessary protection. If dirt or debris gets into the wound, tetanus can result. Getting the TDaP vaccine at the time of the laceration repair can prevent tetanus from occurring.
In addition to laceration repair, we also offer a range of other urgent care services at Plum Health DPC. These may include treatment for minor injuries, such as sprains and fractures, as well as management of acute illnesses, such as colds and flu.
If you or a loved one is in need of urgent care, don't hesitate to contact us at Plum Health DPC. Our team is here to provide the care you need, when you need it most.
Bring Your Pup to Plum Health DPC in Corktown!
Bring Your Pup to Plum Health DPC in Corktown!
If you're a dog owner living in the Corktown neighborhood of Detroit, you'll be happy to hear that your furry friend is welcome at Plum Health DPC! We love when people bring their dogs by for a visit, and we even keep treats on the front desk for them.
We understand that pets are an important part of many people's lives, and we want to make our practice as welcoming and inclusive as possible. That's why we're happy to accommodate dogs (and other pets) at our office.
In addition to the joy and companionship that pets bring, there is also evidence to suggest that interacting with animals can have numerous health benefits. For example, pets can reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve overall mental well-being.
So next time you're coming to see us at Plum Health DPC in Corktown, feel free to bring your furry friend along! We'll be sure to have some treats ready for them, and we'll do our best to make them feel at home.
Special Botox Promotion at Plum Health DPC in Detroit
Special Botox Promotion at Plum Health DPC in Detroit
Are you interested in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles? At Plum Health DPC in Detroit, Dr. Raquel Orlich offers a range of injectable treatments, including Botox, to help patients achieve a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
But what exactly is Botox and how does it work? Botox is a prescription medication that is injected into the muscles in the face to temporarily paralyze them and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It is most commonly used to treat wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes (crow's feet), and between the eyebrows (frown lines).
One of the benefits of Botox is that it is a non-surgical treatment with minimal downtime. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure. Botox results typically last for three to four months, at which point the treatment can be repeated to maintain the desired results.
In addition to its cosmetic benefits, Botox can also be used to treat a number of medical conditions, including chronic migraines, excessive sweating, and muscle spasms. Dr. Orlich will work with you to determine the best treatment plan based on your individual needs and goals.
At Plum Health DPC, we prioritize personalized care and strive to make our treatments as convenient and affordable as possible. If you are interested in learning more about Botox and other injectable treatments at our practice in Detroit, contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Orlich. She will be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you determine if Botox is the right treatment option for you.
Additionally, we’re running a special reduced rate for Botox at our Plum Health DPC - the Botox medication is usually $12.50 per unit, and from January 15th to February 15th, 2023, we are offering the Botox at $11.00 per unit!
Interested in taking the next step? Fill out this form!
The Benefits of Primary Care at Plum Health DPC
As a patient at Plum Health DPC, you have access to high-quality primary care that is focused on you and your specific health needs. But what exactly does primary care at Plum Health DPC entail, and how can it benefit you?
First and foremost, primary care at Plum Health DPC is personalized. Your primary care doctor gets to know you, your medical history, and your health goals, and works with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. This level of individualized care is especially important for managing chronic conditions and promoting overall health and wellness.
Another benefit of primary care at Plum Health DPC is the convenience factor. With same-day appointments available, you can easily schedule a visit to see your primary care doctor when it is most convenient for you. In addition, our telemedicine services allow you to have virtual visits with your doctor from the comfort of your own home.
At Plum Health DPC, we also prioritize preventative care. Your primary care doctor can help you identify potential health risks and work with you to implement strategies to prevent them. This can include screenings, immunizations, and lifestyle modifications to improve your overall health and reduce your risk of developing chronic conditions.
Finally, primary care at Plum Health DPC is more affordable than traditional fee-for-service models. With a membership-based model, you pay a monthly fee for access to primary care and other services, rather than paying for each individual visit or procedure. This can save you money in the long run, especially if you require frequent medical attention.
Overall, primary care at Plum Health DPC is an effective and convenient way to manage your health and prevent potential problems. If you are looking for a primary care doctor who truly cares about your well-being, consider becoming a member at Plum Health DPC.
How to get a Flu Shot in Detroit
Protect Yourself and Your Community with a Flu Shot at Plum Health DPC in Detroit
As the winter season approaches, it's important to take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu. The flu, or influenza, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause severe symptoms and complications, including pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus infections.
One of the most effective ways to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot. At our Plum Health DPC office in Detroit, we carry two types of flu vaccines: Afluria and Fluzone. Both vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective in preventing influenza.
It's important to get a flu shot each year, as the flu virus can change from year to year and the vaccine is reformulated to protect against the most common strains. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get a flu shot.
In addition to protecting yourself, getting a flu shot can also help protect your community by reducing the spread of the flu. This is especially important for people who are at high risk of developing serious complications from the flu, such as young children, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions.
Don't wait until it's too late – make an appointment to get your flu shot at Plum Health DPC in Detroit today! Protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu this season.
Direct Primary Care Doctor in Detroit with Concierge Service
Direct Primary Care Doctor in Detroit with Concierge Service
Over the weekend, I made a house call to Ford Field.
Most of our house calls are to help regular Detroiters with the type of affordable and accessible health care services that we are known for at Plum Health.
If you don’t know about our direct primary care service, we offer excellent medical services at a monthly membership. We have an in-house pharmacy and we dispense medications, we offer a wide variety of procedures (biopsies, pap smears, toe nail removal, BOTOX), and we are able to draw labs and have the lab results back for our patients next day.
Most people use our Plum Health service because we can cut out the middle man and deliver a seamless primary care experience for an affordable price.
Every once in a while, we help a visiting executive, athlete, artist, or performer who needs our medical care and attention.
We have taken care of CEOs who require PCR testing with a rapid turnaround, we have taken care of artists who are visiting and who need help before an important gallery opening, and we’ve taken care of performers who need treatment before their big show here in Detroit.
These VIPs use our Plum Health service because we have the time in our schedule to accommodate their needs, we bring our medical care to them, and we give them a seamless experience without hassles. They might call it concierge medicine, but we prefer Direct Primary Care!
Happy Thanksgiving and thank you for considering Plum Health DPC for your health care needs!
-Dr. Paul Thomas with Plum Health DPC
Appreciation Post for Dr. George Costea
When I was 17 years old, I started volunteering at Cass Clinic, associated with the Cass United Methodist Church. This was about 2004, and it was a life changing experience. As a high school student, I got to work with and learn from medical students at Wayne State University School of Medicine as they took care of patients who were uninsured, underinsured, homeless, and elderly folks who couldn’t drive to another clinic.
After each patient encounter, we would give a presentation to Dr. Costea, who waited patiently for us to share the important clinical information, and who helped guide our management and care with an in-house pharmacy, dispensing blood pressure medications and diabetes medications alongside clinical pearls and clinical wisdom.
We were able to take care of about 30 to 50 patients each day, working in teams of 2 or 3 students, and seeing one patient at a time. We got to spend 30 minutes to an hour with each patient, and listen to their stories. They allowed us to learn from them with otoscopes, blood pressure cuffs, our stethoscopes, and an index card medical record system as many patients returned each week or each month.
From this experience, I knew that I wanted to become a doctor, not just any doctor, but a doctor like Dr. George Costea. Dr. Costea seemed to be infinitely knowledgable about every medication stocked in that backroom pharmacy, he was unendingly patient, and faced difficult situations in the clinic with unmatched equanimity.
When I eventually finished college and made it into Wayne State University School of Medicine, I continued to volunteer at the Cass Clinic, to serve the patients there and to learn from Dr. Costea. When it came time in my third year of medical school to rotate through a family medicine office, I had the privilege of rotating through Dr. Costea’s family medicine practice.
To say that my experiences working with and learning from Dr. Costea shaped me and shaped my career in medicine would be a gross understatement. His presence at the Cass Clinic is the single biggest reason that I had the opportunity to make it into medical school and to become a physician. Further, his model for care inspired me to start Plum Health.
Unfortunately, Dr. Costea passed away on September 19th, 2022.
Dr. Costea worked with hundreds or maybe even thousands of pre-medical students and medical students as they served patients in the Cass Corridor. He started the clinic in the early 1980’s as a part of the free health care movement, and volunteered just about every Saturday for more than 40 years. Dr. Costea’s example - his care, his selflessness, his humility, his patience, and his willingness to teach - will stay with me forever.
Thank you Dr. Costea!
-Paul Thomas, MD
Dr. George Costea at the Cass Clinic in Midtown Detroit.
From Wayne State University School of Medicine:
George Costea, D.O., founder of the Cass Clinic and attending physician for more than 40 years, died Sept. 19. Dr. Costea dedicated nearly every Saturday morning since the early 1980s to providing free health care to Detroit's poor and underserved. Dr. Costea taught hundreds of Wayne State University School of Medicine students during those years and demonstrated selflessness and commitment to serving the community. Cass Clinic is in need of physicians interested in volunteering their time. If you are interested in participating or need more information, please contact Rob Sherwin, M.D. at rsherwin@dmc.org.
Plum Health is Committed to Corktown for the Long Term
Plum Health is Committed to Corktown for the Long Term
This week, there was an attempted smash-and-grab at a neighboring business.
Fortunately, no one was harmed, nothing appears to have been taken, and there are neighbors who live upstairs who reported the incident.
Our Plum Health clinic next door was not affected.
All that being said, we are committed to delivering affordable and accessible health care services in Corktown and Detroit for the long-term. We know that smash-and-grab incidents can happen anywhere, and this does not deter us from being present and delivering the health care services that our community needs.
We are operating a business in Corktown during good times, and we are looking forward to an even brighter future. There are new development projects throughout greater Corktown as Ford Motor Company completes its $1 billion investment into the Michigan Central Station.
For us, this attempted smash-and-grab is a bump in the road towards a more prosperous future.
- Dr. Paul Thomas with Plum Health DPC in Detroit, MI
Addendum from October 12th, 2022
On October 11th, the smash-and-grab attempt happened to one of our neighboring businesses. During the day, Sarah Grimmer, a reporter from Channel 7 Action News aka WXYZ Channel 7 stopped by our office to ask a few questions. Here’s the full story and interview that aired on the 11th:
In the evening, I took some time to reflect on what had happened. Here are my thoughts:
Last night, there was a smash-and-grab attempt at an AT&T store next door to our Plum Health DPC clinic.
Fortunately, no one was harmed, nothing appears to have been taken, and the police are working to resolve the case.
Today, a reporter from WXYZ/WMYD stopped by to ask some questions. I felt like I couldn't clearly articulate what this means, so here's how I think/feel after some reflection.
It's sad and frustrating to see this kind of senseless damage to a neighboring business in Corktown.
We know that smash-and-grab incidents can happen anywhere, and this does not deter us from being present and delivering the health care services that our community needs.
We are committed to delivering affordable and accessible health care services in Corktown and Detroit for the long-term.
We are operating a business in Corktown during good times, and we are looking forward to an even brighter future.
There are new development projects throughout greater Corktown - a new apartment complex is being built across the street from us, a new hotel is going up 1 block away, and Ford Motor Company is completing its $1 billion investment into the Michigan Central Station.
Further, several other small and medium investors continue to improve the neighborhood brick by brick.
Finally, TV crews tend to show up when things are at their worst - hopefully they report that the facade got fixed within hours of the incident.
For us, this attempted smash-and-grab is a bump in the road towards a healthier and more prosperous future.
As a final note, the AT&T store repaired their facade and is back open for business as of the 11th. I stopped in after 5 pm to chat with them, wish them well, and they were already taking care of their customers and helping with new phones, supplies, and tech support. It’s great to see them bounce back like that!
