At Forward, we’re doing something that no one’s ever done before: Providing a new type of healthcare that combines cutting-edge technology, personalized plans and real-time results with 24/7 connected care. To us, at least, becoming a Forward member seems like kind of a no-brainer.
But, as good as the service is, why do doctors come to work at Forward, and leave the comfort and familiarity of traditional healthcare behind? Maybe it’s the opportunity to work with Smart Screens, Body Scanners and biometric sensors. Or, maybe it’s a chance to “really get to know our members, instead of doing so much paperwork!”, says Dr. Janushe Patel, a physician currently at Forward’s San Francisco location in the Financial District.
We spoke with Dr. Patel to find out why Forward was the right fit for her, and to see whether becoming a Forward doctor has helped her on her mission to make a real difference in peoples’ lives.
What made you want to become a doctor?
Losing my grandfather when I was eight, in my own home, was the first time I saw a heart attack in real form. No one ever told him to diet, or exercise, or to take preventative measures or even spoke to him about the importance of understanding your family history. Unfortunately, he passed away at age 58 — and we were later told that it was entirely preventable. That resonated with me. I knew that I wanted to stop this from happening to other people, families, and entire populations. I knew I had to become a physician to make that kind of difference.
What kinds of medicine are you really excited about?
My passion centers around nutritional science, specifically with genetic remodeling and cancer prevention. It’s kind of wonky, but I’m always looking for new data and strategies to help patients find diets that can accomodate acute or chronic illnesses, while also focusing on whole-body wellness.
Why did you decide to join the team at Forward?
My reason for being a physician has always centered around patient care. Forward is the first company that really seems to care about a member’s experience from the moment they walk in the door. Forward has built a culture around practicing medicine without the pressure of charting or insurance-driven metrics, and we’re given ample time to spend checking in on the well-being of our members. I’m humbled to be a part of a company that puts members at the very center of its mission.
What’s one thing you don’t miss about being a doctor in traditional healthcare?
Taking. So. Many. Notes! And doing charts for hours after work. The integration of a live scribe makes my life so much easier, and it eliminates the need to physically document in front of a member, so I can keep all my focus on them. This in turn gives the visit a more intimate approach to health care when members are opening up about vulnerable issues.
What’s the coolest piece of tech you get to use now that you didn’t get to use before you became a Forward doctor?
The Smart Screen, for sure. Because it’s kinda like proof-positive for our members that they’re receiving a higher level of care than they’re likely used to. I am immensely proud and grateful to be a Forward doctor that has access to this kind of tech, and to be able to use it to deliver quality health care.
What kinds of things do you like to do to start your day?
I like to work out on my bike! I also try to build in a little time for my NY Times Crossword puzzle, and have a cup of coffee with my fiancé.
What’s something about you that people might not know?
I’ve been a classical dancer for 20 years!
All of the physicians you’ll find at Forward have values that align with our mission: To make primary health care easier to access and more affordable. Our members enjoy all of the primary care services they need for a monthly fee they can afford—plus a wide range of programs, tools, assessments, and technologies for a highly personalized experience.
As we continue to expand rapidly across the nation, we’re always looking to meet great people who are interested in joining our medical team and working on our mission to provide affordable, quality healthcare to those who need it most.