Best Practices in Atlanta, GA

Juliet Asher, MD, P.C. is a concierge medicine practice in Atlanta, GA, offering personalized and comprehensive primary care. Dr. Asher focuses on providing quality care by dedicating more time to each patient, addressing complex conditions, and supporting healthy lifestyle changes. Patients benefit from longer appointments, direct communication with Dr. Asher via her personal cell phone for urgent issues, and peace of mind knowing she is available when needed. Telemedicine is also available for convenient check-ins and prescription refills.

iClinic Atlanta is a family medicine practice in Atlanta, Georgia, led by Isla Marrero, NP, and Ibrahim Opaleye, MD. They offer comprehensive care for men and women of all ages, with a focus on providing quality care in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The practice prides itself on shorter wait times and providers who spend ample time with patients. iClinic Atlanta offers a range of services, including women's health exams, men's health checkups, weight loss programs, and treatment for various illnesses and chronic diseases. They also provide specialized services such as immigration physicals and Suboxone® treatment. For added convenience, iClinic Atlanta offers telemedicine appointments. The practice is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advances in family medicine through continuing education. iClinic Atlanta also offers concierge medicine services, providing patients with easy access to a qualified medical professional whenever needed. This includes same-day and weekend appointments, as well as the ability to contact the doctor at any time. The concierge medicine program covers a range of primary care services for a flat monthly or annual fee. Patients can expect a compassionate and friendly experience at iClinic Atlanta. The practice has received positive reviews, with patients praising Dr. Opaleye and Isla for their thoughtfulness and guidance. iClinic Atlanta aims to provide affordable and accessible healthcare, with prices lower than urgent care or emergency room fees.

Somerset Medical, also known as Atlanta Concierge Primary Care, redefines healthcare with a personalized, patient-first approach. They focus on putting you in control and keeping you healthy, offering 24/7 concierge-level service. They offer comprehensive concierge primary care, expert-guided weight management with GLP-1 treatments, and cutting-edge IV therapy, in an environment that doesn't feel like a typical doctor's office. Somerset Medical believes great healthcare starts with truly seeing each patient, respecting their lived experience, background, identity, and goals. They welcome people of all races, genders, orientations, bodies, and backgrounds, offering care that respects their whole story.

Offers Atlanta residents a personalized approach to primary care designed to fit each patient's unique lifestyle and health goals.

About You Family Medicine is a direct primary care (DPC) practice founded by Dr. Brian P. Sanders, a board-certified family physician trained at Wake Forest School of Medicine and a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians. The practice operates three Atlanta-area locations: Midtown Atlanta (741 Piedmont Ave NE, Suite 100), Smyrna (2325 Log Cabin Drive SE, Suite 108), and Roswell (1137 Alpharetta Street, Suite A) — making it one of the more geographically accessible DPC practices in the metro area. Membership is $99 per member per month and covers unlimited visits, extended 45-90 minute appointments, same-day or next-day urgent access, and 24/7 direct phone and text access to providers. Lab work is available at greatly reduced cost, and discounted medications are included. The practice also offers specialized add-on programs including a Longevity Program ($2,379/year, limited to 25 members), an Obesity Medicine add-on ($75/month), and Addiction/MAT treatment ($150/month). DOT physicals and immigration physicals round out the service offering. The DPC model here operates outside of insurance billing — patients pay the monthly membership directly and may pair it with a high-deductible health plan or health sharing plan. HRA and FSA funds can be used for the membership fee. Family and group discounts are available by request. Dr. Sanders keeps a smaller patient panel than typical primary care practices to ensure every member gets unhurried, personalized attention. The practice is accepting new patients and offers an online enrollment portal.

Stand Up Family Medicine, founded by Dr. Anand Mehta, is a Direct Primary Care (DPC) practice in Marietta, GA, that prioritizes a personalized and accessible healthcare experience. Operating on a membership basis, patients pay a monthly fee for comprehensive primary care services, eliminating the need for traditional insurance billing for most services. This model allows for longer appointment times and a stronger doctor-patient relationship. Patients benefit from access to their physician via phone, email, or telemedicine, along with extended in-person visits without feeling rushed. The practice aims to make healthcare more human by building lasting relationships and advocating for a system that supports both well-being and joy.

Our Family Doc is a Direct Primary Care (DPC) practice that focuses on building strong patient-physician relationships by removing the complexities of traditional insurance-based healthcare. They offer a membership-based model with transparent pricing, providing substantial savings and increased access to physicians. Their goal is to provide compassionate, personalized care, integrating modern medical technology with the hallmarks of traditional general practice. This model allows for longer, unhurried appointments where doctors can truly listen to patient concerns and develop collaborative treatment plans. With Our Family Doc, patients benefit from predictable monthly fees, eliminating the uncertainty of insurance premiums. The practice emphasizes transparency, ensuring no hidden costs and working directly with labs to offer prescriptions at cost. This direct care approach allows physicians to prioritize quality over quantity, leading to more personalized and attentive care. Patients also enjoy convenient access to their doctor via phone, email, text, or video conferencing, offering round-the-clock service. Our Family Doc aims to be a medical home, providing comprehensive care and convenience tailored to busy lifestyles. They offer a wide range of services, from routine checkups and preventive care to urgent care and chronic disease management. By focusing on a strong doctor-patient relationship and leveraging technology, Our Family Doc delivers individualized and exceptional care in a cost-effective manner. This practice is ideal for individuals and families seeking affordable, accessible, and personalized primary care. The DPC model ensures that patients receive the attention and care they need without the constraints of traditional insurance billing, fostering a proactive approach to health and wellness.

MDVIP is a national network of primary care physicians who focus on delivering personalized, patient-centered, and preventive care. MDVIP-affiliated doctors see fewer patients, allowing them to spend more time with each individual, focusing on wellness and prevention in addition to treating illnesses. Patients gain peace of mind with greater support for their health goals and a stronger connection with their doctor. MDVIP physicians offer same-day or next-day appointments with shorter waits and unhurried visits. They also provide personalized preventive care through an annual wellness program, reliable after-hours availability, and seamless referrals.

Excel Health Primary Care, founded by Dr. James O'Keefe in 2022, is a hybrid direct primary care practice located within Doctors Center II at St. Joseph's Hospital in Atlanta. Dr. O'Keefe, who previously provided concierge-style care at UCLA and Emory University Executive Health, established Excel Health to offer patients more personalized attention through a smaller patient panel. The practice operates on a membership basis, bundling all physician services into the fee without additional co-pays or deductibles. Excel Health aims to provide expert, personalized care and build long-term relationships with patients, free from the constraints of insurance companies and large healthcare systems.

Dr. James O'Keefe MD is an internal medicine physician located in Atlanta, Georgia. He graduated from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in 2010 and has over 15 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. O'Keefe is affiliated with Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital and Emory University Hospital. He created Excel Health Primary Care in 2022, a membership-based practice that allows him to work directly for his patients, providing expert, personalized care and building long-term relationships. Excel Health is a direct primary care (DPC) practice with concierge-level care, free from limits set by third parties, allowing Dr. O'Keefe to meet patient needs without artificial limits on time, access, or services offered. Dr. O'Keefe's approach to patient care involves developing an understanding of each patient's health in a broader context, including their life story, personal health goals, and preferences for care, and personalizing recommendations and follow-up to their needs. He is passionate about primary care science, carefully interpreting research on promoting health and preventing disease, and working with patients on lifestyle planning to improve health while staying current on best practices when medications are needed. He is a nationally recognized expert in primary care. Excel Health provides real access to the doctor, making it easy to reach Dr. O'Keefe and providing care in-person, by phone, video, or messaging. The practice's small size allows easy access to visits when needed, and visits are twice as long as routine primary care visits. Dr. O'Keefe connects with patients after visits as often as necessary to ensure their care plan is working for them.

Juliet Asher, M.D., P.C. is a concierge medicine practice in Atlanta, GA, offering personalized and comprehensive primary care. Dr. Asher focuses on providing quality care by dedicating more time to each patient, addressing complex conditions, and supporting healthy lifestyle changes. Patients benefit from longer appointments, direct communication with Dr. Asher via her personal cell phone for urgent issues, and peace of mind knowing she is available when needed. She offers routine care and comprehensive annual health assessments that exceed traditional standards, tailored to optimize the patient's quality of life. Telemedicine is available as a convenient alternative to in-office visits for check-ins and prescription refills.

Concierge MD is a national provider of in-home medical services and wellness treatments, offering personalized healthcare from licensed practitioners in various locations, including homes, offices, and hotels. They focus on preventative healthcare, offering services in longevity, primary care, and urgent care. Concierge doctors, who have the same training and licensing as traditional primary care physicians, typically have fewer patients, allowing for same-day appointments and more time to discuss health concerns and goals. Concierge MD offers personalized healthcare with longer sessions to address health concerns and goals, focusing on preventative healthcare and well-being. They offer monthly or yearly plans with a personal care coordinator and a range of services tailored to individual needs, including comprehensive testing and access to specialists. This model allows for a more personal relationship with the doctor, who can gain a better understanding of the patient's medical history. Concierge medicine, also known as direct primary care (DPC) or personalized medical service, involves patients paying an upfront fee, usually monthly, for services. This model can provide conveniences like same-day appointments and 24/7 physician availability. Concierge MD aims to make VIP care accessible, offering affordable membership plans with unlimited office visits and 24-hour appointment access. Concierge MD may be a good fit for individuals seeking more personalized and accessible healthcare, with a focus on preventative care and convenient in-home or virtual consultations.

Dr. Marc Harrigan operates Concierge Medicine of Buckhead in Atlanta, GA, offering personalized family medicine. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Harrigan focuses on building strong, trusting relationships with his patients, ensuring comprehensive and unhurried care. Named one of the best concierge practices in Atlanta by Atlanta Magazine, the practice emphasizes direct communication, minimal waiting times, and 24/7 access for urgent issues. Dr. Harrigan is deeply involved in the community, volunteering and sitting on non-profit boards. He aims to provide quality healthcare, treating each patient like a cherished family member.

Family First Direct Primary Care aims to restore the relationship between individuals and their doctor, offering a personalized approach to healthcare that is affordable, accessible, and transparent. They focus on promoting healthier lives through prevention and wellness, committing to each patient's individual healthcare needs. The practice removes the complexities of insurance, excess paperwork, and rushed appointments, allowing the physician to address patient concerns in a calm, stress-free environment. Patients appreciate the empathy and care they receive, with many noting that they feel truly listened to and that their needs are addressed thoroughly.

OptumMD, located in Buckhead, Atlanta, is a membership-based concierge and functional medicine practice committed to providing high-quality, personalized healthcare. Founded by Dr. Edward Espinosa and Dr. Valerie Pershad, with Dr. Diana Rodgers later joining, the practice focuses on delivering attentive and accessible care. OptumMD was named the Best Concierge Medical Practice in Atlanta by The Atlantan magazine in 2025. OptumMD combines concierge primary care with a functional medicine approach, focusing on identifying and treating the root causes of chronic conditions. They offer extended appointments, advanced diagnostic testing, and individualized care plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. The practice emphasizes prevention, metabolic optimization, and personalized treatment plans to improve long-term health outcomes. Members of OptumMD receive thoughtful, comprehensive appointments, collaborative health planning, and direct 24/7 access to their physicians for urgent medical matters. They also have access to services such as cardiovascular risk assessment, functional medicine diagnostics, obesity medicine with GLP-1 therapies, hormone replacement, brain health screening, and full-body longevity imaging. Registered Dietitian Emily Razza provides Medical Nutrition Therapy and personalized nutrition plans. OptumMD donates 3% of all annual membership fees to a local charity, currently Bert's Big Adventure. OptumMD distinguishes itself by offering same-day or next-day appointments, minimal wait times, and after-hours access to physicians. The practice aims to provide a healthcare experience that is focused on quality, personalized care with timely appointments and longer visits.

Dr. Sandra Adamson Fryhofer is a board-certified internal medicine physician in Atlanta, Georgia, with over 40 years of experience. She is also an Adjunct Associate Professor of Medicine at Emory University School of Medicine. Dr. Fryhofer focuses on comprehensive primary care, helping patients manage their overall health and well-being through preventive care and treatment of various medical conditions. She is on staff at Piedmont Hospital, Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital, Emory Midtown Hospital, and Northside Hospital. Dr. Fryhofer's practice provides a range of services including health assessments, testing, screenings, and personalized prevention and wellness plans. She offers specific health assessments for women and men, including well-woman exams, cervical cancer screenings, prostate checks, and PSA testing. She also provides healthy lifestyle recommendations, contraception, bone health management, and hormone issue treatments. For executives, she delivers personalized prevention and wellness plans tailored to meet their demanding schedules. Dr. Fryhofer has held numerous leadership positions, including President of the American College of Physicians (ACP) and member of the American Medical Association (AMA) Board of Trustees. She has served on committees and panels for the CDC, Institute of Medicine (IOM), and other organizations, addressing various health issues. Her extensive experience in medical communications includes being a medical correspondent for CNN Headline News and appearances on other media outlets. Dr. Fryhofer's practice aims to be a medical home where patients receive coordinated care in a comfortable and caring atmosphere. She and her staff focus on helping patients stay up to date with wellness and cancer screenings, emphasizing the importance of their overall well-being.

The Piedmont Executive Health Program offers busy professionals a comprehensive, one-day preventive healthcare experience. The program includes appointments with medical specialists in internal medicine, heart and lung health, dermatology, and nutrition. The goal is to identify and reduce potential health risks through customized tests and services, resulting in a personalized action plan for improved health and well-being. Participants benefit from a personal campus navigator, coordinated follow-up care, and a post-visit consultation with their executive health physician.

Personalized Primary Care Atlanta specializes in delivering personalized, comprehensive, and up-to-date primary care to adult men and women. The practice emphasizes integrating clinical experience with current medical evidence, focusing on both prevention and optimal management of illness to improve the quality of patients' lives. With a smaller patient panel size, they ensure a higher level of personal attention and service, offering a calm setting, unhurried pace, and a personal approach to care delivery. They focus on providing high-quality and well-coordinated care, with an emphasis on providing a higher level of individualized attention.

Concierge Medicine of Buckhead, led by Dr. Marc Harrigan, offers a personalized and proactive approach to family medicine. Dr. Harrigan, a board-certified family physician with over 20 years of experience, focuses on building strong, trusting relationships with his patients, limiting the patient panel to ensure unrushed visits and ample availability. The practice emphasizes a holistic approach, addressing not just immediate symptoms but also the patient's overall well-being. Patients benefit from 24/7 direct communication with Dr. Harrigan, same or next-day appointments, and minimal waiting times. Dr. Harrigan's practice stands out by offering highly personalized care, exceeding client expectations with customized medical attention. He takes a holistic approach to care, considering various aspects of a patient's life to form a strong physician-patient connection. The office environment is designed for comfort and privacy, often appearing as if you're the only patient. This model allows for in-depth visits and a strong focus on long-term health and wellness. Concierge Medicine of Buckhead also provides services such as nutritional counseling, stress management, and lifestyle coaching, empowering patients to achieve optimal health. Telemedicine options are available for check-ins and prescription refills. Patients can contact Dr. Harrigan directly on his cell phone for urgent issues after hours, reducing the need for emergency room visits. The practice has been recognized as one of the best concierge medicine practices in Atlanta. Located in the heart of Atlanta, Concierge Medicine of Buckhead is committed to making healthcare accessible and convenient. Dr. Harrigan's goal is to provide quality and comprehensive healthcare to all his patients, fostering a trusting and honest relationship. He is affiliated with Piedmont Healthcare and is a member of several medical associations.

MDVIP Atlanta offers a personalized healthcare experience through a network of affiliated family medicine and internal medicine doctors located throughout the Atlanta metro area, including downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, and Sandy Springs. These physicians maintain smaller practices, allowing them to provide more attentive care with longer appointments and greater focus on wellness and prevention. MDVIP-affiliated doctors offer services including comprehensive health screenings and personalized wellness plans. They are often available 24/7 by phone or secure messaging, even after hours and on weekends.

Sandy Springs Internal Medicine, established in 1954, is a concierge medical practice committed to providing quality, compassionate, and personalized healthcare. In 2005, they transitioned to a concierge model to ensure physicians have the time to provide the best care for their patients. The practice emphasizes building strong patient-physician relationships to achieve the best health outcomes. They offer a wide range of healthcare services, including annual exams, preventative medical exams, diagnostic testing, health screenings, and treatment of acute illnesses. As a concierge practice, Sandy Springs Internal Medicine guarantees increased availability with their physicians, with patient panel sizes that are, on average, one-fifth the size of a regular internal medicine practice. They offer 24/7 access to physicians, same- or next-day appointments when needed, and enhanced coordination of care with specialists. The practice has a network of trusted specialists for referrals. The physicians at Sandy Springs Internal Medicine include Doctors William J. Gower, III, Peter W. Gutschenritter, Kelly J. Ahn, W. Thomas Reed, Fredd E. Miller, Rashmi Sharma, and Thomas R. Lall. These physicians are board-certified in internal medicine and collectively have over 150 years of experience. The support staff assists patients with scheduling outside procedures and consultations, refilling prescriptions, and coordinating care with outside specialists and hospitals. Sandy Springs Internal Medicine strives to provide patients with up-to-date medical information and personalized care tailored to their unique medical needs. They offer comprehensive annual wellness checks and in-house laboratory testing.

Buckhead Internal Medicine is a concierge internal medicine practice in Atlanta led by Dr. Nan Monahan (Emory-trained) and Dr. Erica Peters (Medical College of Georgia). Their membership model provides direct physician cell phone access for after-hours urgent issues, comprehensive preventive care plans, and personalized long-term wellness support.

Premier Concierge Care of Atlanta is a membership-based medical practice providing personalized and comprehensive direct primary care to adults in the Cumberland area of North Atlanta. The practice emphasizes preventative care and aims to integrate clinical expertise with the latest medical insights. Patients benefit from individualized attention, reduced wait times with same-day or next-day appointments, and extended office visits for in-depth discussions. The medical team is led by Dr. Ebon Bourne and Dr. Steven Lenhard, both experienced internists who focus on building long-term relationships with their patients to promote overall well-being. Patients have 24/7 access to their physicians via phone or secure messaging, ensuring support is available when needed. The practice also offers enhanced coordination with specialists and utilizes advanced technology for better communication and health monitoring. Patients consistently praise the practice for its attentive and empathetic care. Many appreciate the ability to get same-day appointments and quick responses to their concerns. The staff is described as warm, fast, and efficient, creating a welcoming and supportive environment. Dr. Bourne and Dr. Lenhard are highly regarded for their knowledge, compassion, and commitment to their patients' long-term health.

PartnerMD is a concierge medicine practice that offers a more personalized and comprehensive healthcare experience compared to traditional primary care. They focus on building strong doctor-patient relationships by limiting the number of patients per physician. This allows for longer appointment times, greater access to care, and a focus on preventive medicine and wellness. PartnerMD aims to provide a higher level of service and convenience, with features like same-day appointments and direct communication with physicians. They offer a range of services including primary care, executive physicals, and wellness programs.

Piedmont Healthcare is a private, not-for-profit organization with a large network of locations across Georgia, serving millions of patients. They aim to transform healthcare by focusing on providing excellent clinicians and a patient-first experience. Piedmont is known for its treatment of heart disease, organ transplantation, and cancer care. They have a large number of employees dedicated to making a positive impact and are committed to community benefit programs. Piedmont Healthcare provides comprehensive care for individuals and families, encompassing all ages and various types of diseases. They offer a range of services including preventive care, treatment of minor injuries, and management of chronic diseases.

Sol Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a dedicated healthcare practice in East Point, Georgia, focused on providing personalized and comprehensive care for Black women. Dr. Michelle Cooke and her team are committed to honoring, uplifting, and prioritizing Black women's health and wellness by creating a comfortable and supportive environment. Sol DPC embraces a direct primary care model, which means they do not accept insurance, allowing them to focus on the doctor-patient relationship and provide longer, more thorough appointments. They offer services such as family medicine, women's health, chronic disease management, and lifestyle medicine. Sol DPC distinguishes itself by offering a range of services tailored to the unique needs of Black women, including menopause care and medical weight loss through the Sol Fit Club. They also provide aesthetic services like laser hair removal and hair restoration. The practice utilizes advanced technology, such as the Styku 3D body composition scanner, to provide detailed insights into patients' health. Sol DPC offers different membership plans to cater to varying needs, with options for annual exams, additional office visits, and unlimited telehealth. At Sol DPC, patients can expect a patient-centered approach with convenient appointment scheduling, including both in-person and telehealth visits. The practice emphasizes empowerment by providing patients with the knowledge and resources to take control of their health. Sol DPC aims to deliver effective and efficient care by staying updated with new ideas and advancements in healthcare. They also focus on holistic well-being, addressing physical, mental, and emotional health to support patients in achieving their healthiest selves. Sol DPC offers a unique VIP Physical, a 60-minute deep dive into a patient's health, including a comprehensive exam, basic annual labs, a Styku 3D body scan, and a personalized care plan. This thorough approach ensures that all concerns are addressed, and patients receive the individualized attention they deserve. Sol DPC welcomes men and patients of all backgrounds who support their mission of providing quality healthcare for Black women.

Gateway Direct Health, founded by Dr. Gabrielle Williams, is a membership-based direct primary care practice in Stockbridge, GA. Dr. Williams is a board-certified Family Medicine physician focused on providing personalized healthcare through a direct and simple membership plan. The practice aims to restore the doctor-patient relationship by offering accessible, educational, and patient-centered care. They focus on building strong, long-term relationships between patients and their physicians without interference from insurance companies. Gateway Direct Health offers services based on direct health and concierge models, eliminating the need for insurance. Members benefit from in-person, virtual, and even home visits, with little to no wait times and appointments available within days rather than months. The practice also coordinates care with specialists and provides discounted in-house labs. They offer primary care services, including chronic disease management, acute care, and medical weight loss. This practice is ideal for entrepreneurs and professionals seeking quality healthcare with timely access. Gateway Direct Health guarantees appointments within days and provides direct access to the doctor via text. They also offer healthcare solutions for small businesses by allowing employers to sponsor membership fees for their employees.

Dr. Nabaa Zalzala is a double board-certified family medicine physician practicing in Alpharetta, GA. She graduated from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency training through the Beaumont Health System in Michigan. Dr. Zalzala worked with the University Medical Associates group in San Antonio before moving to Georgia in 2020. She is fluent in English and Arabic. Family First Direct Primary Care is committed to providing accessible, affordable, and quality medical care using the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model. DPC allows for better access to the doctor, a focus on preventative health, low-cost options, and a quality doctor-patient relationship based on trust.

Offers comprehensive primary care as well as cutting-edge functional medicine and longevity medicine.

Emory Executive Health, located on Emory University's campus in Atlanta, is a nationally recognized center providing comprehensive preventive health assessments tailored to busy executives and individuals seeking personalized care. Established in 1995, they offer extensive annual testing and comprehensive physical examinations, with a focus on preventive and lifestyle medicine. The center's approach emphasizes coordinated care, with same-day results review and personalized attention from board-certified physicians, nurses, and health coaches. Emory Executive Health is committed to managing complex chronic diseases and helping patients achieve their wellness goals, earning them recognition in the top 1% for patient satisfaction by Press Ganey. Emory Executive Health provides a premium health experience designed to support the wellness of corporate employees through expertise, coordination, and long-term partnership. The program blends advanced diagnostics with a personalized experience, ensuring that each executive receives a customized physical based on their medical history and preferences. The annual physical includes a comprehensive battery of blood tests, X-rays, an EKG, and a stress test, all coordinated into a few hours. Patients benefit from dedicated time with a health coach to discuss health goals, dietary assessments, personalized exercise counseling, and chronic disease risk assessment. As an Emory Executive Health patient, individuals receive an hour-long extended visit with a board-certified physician, plus additional time to review results, addressing all healthcare needs in a personalized and unhurried manner. The center focuses on promoting wellness and lifestyle management while offering evidence-based preventive medicine. They offer a streamlined process with an elegant suite and a special waiting area, ensuring efficiency and comfort. Emory Executive Health coordinates all healthcare needs on the day of the visit and works with patients throughout the year to connect them with Emory specialists. Emory Executive Health does not file to insurance companies nor do they accept contractual insurance adjustments. They provide services such as preventive medicine, lifestyle medicine, extended physical exams, dietary assessments, and electrocardiograms. Additional services include immunizations, mammograms, testosterone testing, CT heart screening, and bone density tests. The center is dedicated to providing consistent, quality care and values the relationships and partnerships with its patients.