Keeping Farmers & Ranchers Healthy with Resurgent Health's Aly Dahl and Kristine Martens

Fargo, ND based Resurgent Health is bringing a new philosophy on healthcare

Contact Resurgent Health: at their website, Facebook Page or by phone [phone]

An episode summary:

Introduction and Direct Primary Care Explanation (0:00 - 6:38)

The Ag Week podcast host, Al Winmill, introduces Aly Dahl and Kristine Martens from Resurgent Health, a direct primary care clinic in Fargo. They begin by explaining the concept of direct primary care, emphasizing that it's a membership-based model rather than insurance-driven. Patients pay a monthly fee for unlimited access to their providers, including in-person visits, phone calls, text messages, and virtual appointments. This model aims to foster stronger patient-provider relationships and provide more personalized care. They contrast this with the traditional insurance-based system, where providers often have limited time per patient due to reimbursement rates and are incentivized to see more patients to generate revenue. They highlight that their model allows for longer, more focused visits, and they are motivated to keep patients healthy rather than just treating them when they're sick. The transparency of their pricing, with no surprise bills, is also a key benefit. They state that the system is more convenient for patients, especially those with busy lifestyles, as much of the care can be delivered remotely.

Direct Primary Care and Agriculture (6:38 - 10:26)

The conversation shifts to the suitability of direct primary care for those in agriculture. Dahl and Martens explain that their model is particularly beneficial for farmers and ranchers due to its convenience and accessibility. They acknowledge that farmers often work long hours, especially during planting and harvest seasons, and may not have time for traditional doctor's appointments. Direct access to providers via phone, text, and virtual visits allows farmers to receive care without leaving their work. They also emphasize that their model is more proactive, focusing on preventative care rather than a reactionary approach. They discuss the economic benefits of direct primary care for agricultural businesses, noting that it can be a more affordable alternative to traditional health insurance, especially for small businesses struggling to offer comprehensive benefits. They are now offering their services as a benefit for small businesses. They believe that offering direct primary care can help attract and retain employees by providing them with access to quality healthcare.

Health Challenges Faced by Farmers (10:26 - 13:09)

The guests then discuss the unique health challenges faced by farmers and ranchers. They highlight musculoskeletal injuries as a common issue due to the physically demanding nature of their work. They explain that they focus on healing the body from the inside out and that Dr. Martens offers osteopathic manipulation techniques to help with pain management. They also address the high levels of stress experienced by farmers due to market fluctuations, weather conditions, and other factors. They acknowledge that many farmers self-medicate with alcohol or ignore their health issues altogether. They emphasize their commitment to being there for their patients during challenging times and helping them maintain their health.

Addressing Stress and Osteopathic Manipulation (13:09 - 14:58)

The discussion returns to the stress experienced by farmers, and the doctors reiterate that seeking medical care shouldn't add to that stress. They emphasize the flexibility of their scheduling, allowing for virtual visits or rescheduling without long waits. Dr. Martens elaborates on osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), a hands-on technique she offers. She explains that it's a gentle approach, combining elements of massage and chiropractic, aimed at aligning the body and promoting natural healing. OMT can be beneficial for various pain syndromes, migraines, and even GI issues. She notes that Resurgent Health is currently the only clinic in the area offering this service.

Nutrition and Individualized Care (15:16 - 18:38)

The conversation shifts to nutrition, with the doctors acknowledging that farmers often have healthier eating habits than city dwellers. They stress the importance of individualized dietary advice, recognizing the unique challenges faced by farmers who work long hours and have varying schedules. They explain that they don't believe in rigid dietary restrictions or "check-box" approaches, instead focusing on making small, sustainable changes based on each patient's lifestyle and needs. They give an example of working with a farmer who drinks a lot of Mountain Dew, suggesting a gradual reduction rather than complete elimination. They emphasize that generic nutritional advice is difficult because individual circumstances vary greatly.

Practical Health Tips and Prioritizing Care (18:39 - 21:22)

The doctors offer practical health tips for farmers and ranchers, particularly emphasizing the importance of preventative care and addressing the reluctance of men to seek medical attention. They cite a study predicting a significant increase in men's cancer rates by 2050 and urge men to prioritize their health. They highlight the convenience and personalized care offered by Resurgent Health, encouraging listeners to consider their model as a more comfortable and accessible alternative to traditional healthcare. They reiterate that the current healthcare system, not the providers, is often the source of frustration and that their model allows them to provide the kind of patient-centered care they believe in.

Learning More and Scheduling Consultations (21:22 - 22:41)

Winmill about how listeners can learn more about Resurgent Health. The doctors direct them to their website, resurgenthealth.net, and highlight their offer of free "meet and greets." They emphasize that these consultations are no-obligation and provide an opportunity to meet the doctors and learn more about their services. They also mention that they offer after-hours consultations on Monday evenings and Friday mornings, in addition to regular weekday appointments, to accommodate busy schedules.

Concluding Remarks and Gratitude (22:43 - 22:58)

The podcast concludes with Winmill expressing gratitude to Aly Dahl and Kristine Martens for sharing their insights and the story of Resurgent Health. Winmill commends the clinic for its innovative approach to healthcare and find their work inspiring. Winmill expresses hope for future conversations with the doctors. Dahl and Martens reciprocate the thanks, expressing their appreciation for the opportunity to share their message.