Discover the Rise of Independent Health Care in Northwest Montana: What It Means for Your Wellness

Patients are increasingly seeking more healthcare options, and many providers in Northwest Montana are stepping up to meet this need. This area is buzzing with independent doctor groups and direct primary care physicians who are taking bold steps to redefine healthcare.

Many of these providers chose this path after listening to their patients. People are looking for personalized care, and they often find health insurance confusing and care access limited.

One such provider is Dr. Marisa Hoyne, who founded Kalispell Direct Care. She wanted to offer her patients more personal attention while pursuing her dreams as a doctor. Balancing the roles of business owner and physician was challenging, but she has discovered a sustainable model in direct primary care. “It’s been interesting. I honestly never expected to do this — I thought I’d be employed by someone else forever,” Hoyne shared.

This shift in healthcare isn’t just happening in Montana. Across the U.S., we’re seeing the number of physician-owned practices decline dramatically. In the 1980s, about 76% of doctors were self-employed, but that number has dropped to just 35.4% in 2024. However, Northwest Montana might be reversing this trend by embracing more independent healthcare options.

Experts suggest that valuing personal relationships in healthcare can lead to better patient outcomes. A recent [American Medical Association survey](https://www.ama-assn.org/) found that 88% of patients prefer seeing a doctor who has time to listen to their concerns. This resonates with the experiences in Northwest Montana, where patients value personalized care highly.

As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, the push for independence reflects a broader desire for systems that prioritize patient well-being above all. By supporting local initiatives, communities can help shape a healthcare system that truly meets their needs.

Thanks for reading and engaging with the local healthcare conversation.

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