The Journey Timeline
Every major milestone from decision to anniversary, mapped across two years.
Gave 90-day notice at Meridian Health Partners after 8 years. Began researching DPC model.
Spent a month studying DPC: financial models, legal frameworks, conversations with practicing DPC physicians.
Formed LLC, opened business bank account, built financial projections, applied for SBA loan.
$3,500Found and signed lease for 1,050 sq ft suite on Elm Street. Three-year term, $3,200/month.
$9,600Ten weeks of construction: plumbing, electrical, flooring, paint, furnishing. Two exam rooms, lab space, waiting area.
$43,500Mapped all technology needs across six categories. Set budget of $400-500/month for tech stack.
Narrowed the field to five EMR options. Built evaluation criteria with 17 weighted factors.
After hands-on demos with three finalists, selected Hero EMR for its AI scribe, unified inbox, and comprehensive feature set.
$299Malpractice insurance, DEA registration, CLIA waiver, business licenses, Hero EMR implementation.
$13,550Verdant Family Medicine opened its doors. First patient: Patricia Okafor. Five patients seen on day one.
Reached 67 members by month three. Ahead of projections. Revenue growing steadily.
Published detailed Hero EMR review after 1,500+ documented encounters. AI scribe saving 2.5 hours/day.
348 patients enrolled. Practice generating positive cash flow. $174K salary. Not burned out.