Discover why specialized occupational health clinics are key to better injury outcomes and employee satisfaction. Dr. Darin Gregory of Strada Occupational Health shares expert tips on injury management, drug screening, and navigating marijuana testing changes.
In today’s healthcare landscape, having insurance doesn’t always mean having access to affordable care. A growing number of Americans are considered functionally uninsured—a term describing those with health insurance plans that have deductibles so high they can’t afford to use them. According to a 2022 report, single-coverage deductibles have skyrocketed from $379 in 2006 to $1,350 by 2018, while half of working-age adults have less than $2,000 in savings. This gap forces many to skip essential care, leading to worse health outcomes and financial strain. At Strada Healthcare, we believe innovative models like Direct Primary Care (DPC) are transforming healthcare by providing affordable, accessible solutions outside the traditional insurance system.
The Reality of Being Functionally Uninsured
The Commonwealth Fund’s 2020 Biennial Health Insurance Survey revealed that 43.4% of working-age adults were inadequately insured, including 21.3% who had coverage but faced high out-of-pocket costs or deductibles relative to their income. For these individuals, a deductible of $5,000 or more—common in many plans—can feel like no insurance at all. A 2023 KFF report found that 49% of uninsured adults and 21% of insured adults struggle to afford healthcare costs, with 61% of uninsured adults skipping needed care due to cost. Even those with employer-sponsored plans aren’t immune: 48% worry about affording their deductible before insurance kicks in.
This affordability crisis has real consequences. One in four adults reported delaying or forgoing care due to cost in 2023, with Hispanic and low-income individuals facing higher barriers. Medical debt is another looming issue, with 41% of adults reporting healthcare-related debt, disproportionately affecting Black and Hispanic communities. The result? A healthcare system where coverage doesn’t guarantee care, leaving millions to choose between medical bills and basic necessities like groceries or rent.
Why Traditional Insurance Falls Short
The U.S. healthcare system is complex and opaque, often prioritizing profit over patient needs. High deductibles, rising premiums, and unexpected out-of-pocket costs create a disconnect between insurance and actual care. A Forbes article noted that U.S. medical bills and indebtedness account for 66.5% of personal insolvencies, highlighting how insurance has devolved into “stop-loss coverage” rather than a shield against financial risk. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) expanded coverage, but gaps remain—10 states haven’t adopted Medicaid expansion, leaving 1.5 million without affordable options.
For many, the cost of insurance itself is a barrier. In 2022, 64% of uninsured adults cited unaffordability as the reason they lacked coverage. Even insured individuals face challenges: 43% with employer plans and 57% with marketplace plans reported difficulty affording care in 2023. This system forces patients into a paradigm where they receive services without knowing the final cost, eroding trust and access.
Direct Primary Care: A Game-Changing Solution
At Strada Healthcare, we’re addressing this crisis head-on with Direct Primary Care (DPC), a model that bypasses traditional insurance to deliver affordable, patient-centered care. DPC operates on a simple premise: patients pay a flat monthly fee—often $50-$150—for unlimited access to primary care services, including routine visits, preventive care, and chronic disease management. This eliminates high deductibles, copays, and surprise bills, making healthcare predictable and accessible.
DPC empowers patients by fostering stronger doctor-patient relationships. Unlike traditional practices, where physicians juggle thousands of patients and insurance paperwork, DPC providers maintain smaller patient panels, allowing for longer visits and same-day appointments. A 2024 article highlighted DPC’s potential to reduce costs and improve outcomes by focusing on preventive care, which can prevent costly emergencies. For example, regular checkups and early interventions for conditions like diabetes or hypertension can save thousands in hospital bills.
DPC also offers transparency. Patients know exactly what they’re paying for, with no hidden fees or billing surprises. At Strada Healthcare, our DPC model includes services like annual wellness exams, blood pressure monitoring, and cholesterol screenings, all covered under the monthly fee. For procedures or medications outside the scope of primary care, we negotiate cash prices or partner with affordable providers, further reducing costs.
Real-World Impact of DPC
The benefits of DPC are tangible. A 2022 study found that DPC models reduce downstream healthcare costs by improving access to preventive care and reducing emergency department visits. Patients with chronic conditions, who often face high out-of-pocket costs in traditional systems, benefit most. By managing conditions proactively, DPC can prevent complications that lead to hospitalizations, which cost uninsured patients an estimated $35 billion in uncompensated care in 2001 alone.
DPC is also a lifeline for the functionally uninsured. For those with high-deductible plans, pairing DPC with a catastrophic insurance policy provides comprehensive coverage at a fraction of the cost. Short-term health plans, which have lower premiums and deductibles, can complement DPC, though new regulations limit their duration starting September 2024. This hybrid approach ensures patients have access to day-to-day care while protecting against major medical expenses.
At Strada Healthcare, we’re committed to making healthcare affordable and human-centered. Our DPC model is designed for individuals, families, and small businesses tired of navigating the insurance maze. Here’s why it works:
We’re thrilled to announce that CompChoice Occupational Health is officially rebranding as Strada Occupational Health. This rebranding aligns with our mission to offer comprehensive, preventive healthcare solutions for businesses and their employees, further strengthening Strada Healthcare’s commitment to accessible, affordable, and preventive healthcare.
Why CompChoice is Now Strada Occupational Health
For years, CompChoice has been a trusted provider in occupational health, supporting companies in building safer, healthier workplaces. By rebranding to Strada Occupational Health, we’re bringing these vital services fully under the Strada Healthcare brand, enhancing our clients’ access to a broader range of health services. Our goal is to empower employers with the tools they need to provide proactive care and to foster long-term wellness in the workplace.
Expanded Services to Support Employers of All Sizes
At Strada, we’re proud to offer a comprehensive suite of healthcare solutions, tailored to support both physical and mental well-being.
Meet Our Newest Providers
We are also excited to welcome Dr. Darin Gregory and Tammi Hemje, APRN, to the Strada Healthcare team. Both providers will begin seeing patients on December 1st, bringing their expertise in occupational health and dedication to patient-centered care. Dr. Gregory and Tammi are eager to work alongside Heather Blair, PA-C to service our clients and their employees and deliver the highest level of care and support.
Looking Forward
As Strada, we’re excited to bring the same trusted care with a renewed focus on preventive health and innovative solutions. Thank you to our clients for your continued support and for trusting us with your occupational health needs. Together, we are building a healthier, more productive future.
Strada Healthcare is thrilled to announce its affiliation with Plum Health, a trailblazing Direct Primary Care (DPC) practice founded by the visionary Dr. Paul Thomas. This alliance aims to expand DPC in the Detroit metro area, bringing more affordable and accessible healthcare everyone.
Enhancing Access to DPC for Employers:
One of the primary objectives Strada Healthcare’s affiliation with Plum Health is to expand DPC services to a larger number of employers in the Detroit metro area. Direct Primary Care has proven to be a cost-effective and efficient healthcare model for employers, providing comprehensive care and reducing overall healthcare expenses all without the complexity of insurance claims. Strada Healthcare will bring its experience integrating DPC with large self-funded health plans to work with Plum Health and employers in the Detroit metro.
Ryne Bessmer, President of Strada Healthcare, said: “We are looking forward to working with the talented and experienced team at Plum Health. I think by working together, we will accomplish great things for the people of Detroit.”
About Plum Health:
Plum Health was founded by Dr. Paul Thomas, a board-certified family medicine physician practicing in Corktown Detroit. Plum Health Direct Primary Care was the first of its kind in Detroit and Wayne County. Dr. Paul’s mission is to deliver affordable, accessible health care services in Detroit and beyond. He has been featured on PBS, WDIV-TV Channel 4, WXYZ Channel 7, Crain’s Detroit Business, and CBS Radio. He has been a speaker at TEDxDetroit. He is a graduate of Wayne State University School of Medicine and now a Clinical Assistant Professor. Finally, he is an author of three books, including Direct Primary Care: The Cure for Our Broken Healthcare System and Startup DPC: How to Start and Grow Your Direct Primary Care Practice.
Learn more about Plum Health on our website here or visit www.plumhealthdpc.com
Tom Daguanno, Partner at Plum Health, said: “Partnering with Strada Healthcare will allow us to ramp up direct primary care accessibility for businesses and their employees throughout the entire metro Detroit area. We’re excited to get started.”
About Strada Healthcare:
Strada Healthcare was founded in 2016 by Dr. Joel Bessmer in Omaha, Neb., and is one of the region’s largest Direct Primary Care (DPC) organizations with more than 60 affiliate locations across nine states: Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, Wisconsin, Texas, Michigan, Arizona and Washington, D.C. Strada Healthcare is a pioneer in the DPC movement and is on a mission to bring more affordable and accessible healthcare to everyone. For more information on Strada Healthcare, visit StradaHealthcare.com.
At Strada Healthcare, we understand the importance of managing heart health. Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, but with the right lifestyle habits and medical care, it is possible to reduce your risk of developing heart problems. In this blog post, we will explore 10 factors that can determine your risk of heart disease and provide tips for maintaining a healthy heart.
Genetics: It’s no secret that your genes play a role in your risk of certain diseases. So if you have a family history of a particular condition, you may be at higher risk.
Age: As we get older, our risk of certain diseases increases. So if you’re a senior citizen, you might be at higher risk for certain conditions than someone who is younger.
Gender: Some diseases are more common in men or women, so your gender can also affect your risk.
Lifestyle: Your lifestyle can have a big impact on your risk of disease. Things like smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise can all increase your risk.
Environment: The environment you live in can also play a role in your risk of disease. For example, living in an area with high pollution levels may increase your risk of respiratory problems.
Stress: Chronic stress can take a toll on your health and increase your risk of certain conditions, such as heart disease and depression.
Sleep: Not getting enough sleep can also increase your risk of various health issues.
Weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of several diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Mental health: Poor mental health can also affect your risk of various health conditions.
Social support: Having strong social connections and support can help protect against certain diseases and improve your overall health.
By understanding the factors that can affect your risk of heart disease, you can take steps to prioritize your heart health and reduce your risk. At Strada Healthcare, we offer personalized care and support to help patients manage their heart health and live their best lives. Our team of concierge physicians and healthcare professionals are dedicated to providing high-quality care and helping patients achieve their health goals. If you’re looking to take control of your heart health, Strada Healthcare is here to help.
As the new year approaches, many of us make resolutions to improve our health. Whether it’s losing weight, exercising more, or quitting a bad habit, taking steps towards better health can have a big impact on our overall well-being.
One of the most common resolutions is to eat healthier. This can mean cutting out processed foods, adding more fruits and vegetables to our diet, or reducing our intake of sugar and unhealthy fats. Another popular resolution is to exercise more, whether it’s joining a gym or simply going for a walk a few times a week. Exercise can help improve our physical and mental health, as well as reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
Another important aspect of maintaining good health is getting enough sleep. It’s important to aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to help our bodies repair and rejuvenate. If you have trouble sleeping, try establishing a bedtime routine, avoiding screens before bedtime, and making sure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet.
As we enter the cold and flu season, it’s important to take extra precautions to protect ourselves and others from illness. One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness is by washing our hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. It’s also a good idea to avoid close contact with people who are sick and to cover our mouths and noses when we cough or sneeze.
Another way to stay healthy during cold and flu season is by getting a flu shot. The flu vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect ourselves and those around us from the flu. It’s especially important for those at high risk of complications, such as young children, older adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
In addition to these measures, it’s important to boost our immune system to help us fight off illness. This can be done through a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein, as well as regular exercise and stress management. Some people also find that taking supplements, such as vitamin C and zinc, can help support their immune system.
Finally, don’t forget the importance of mental health in maintaining overall well-being. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in self-care practices like meditation or yoga.
In summary, there are many ways we can resolve to improve our health in the new year. By eating healthier, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, taking precautions to prevent illness, boosting our immune system, and taking care of our mental health, we can set ourselves up for a healthy and happy year ahead.
It’s no secret that the flu and COVID are both going around. In this episode, Dr. Joel Bessmer provides tips on how to manage both of these viruses. We’ll discuss tips for staying healthy, opportunities for getting tested using our Bio Fire, and various treatment remedies if you get ill.
Occupational health services provider CompChoice Inc. has joined Strada Healthcare, a direct primary care (DPC) network with more than 60 locations across nine states. Both entities are based in Omaha.
“As one of our region’s largest direct primary care networks, we find the needs of our patients, physicians and corporate customers growing,” Strada Healthcare President Michael Wade said. “Bringing CompChoice into our Strada Healthcare group expands our ability to provide advanced primary care solutions and continue our mission to create a better primary care model.”
CompChoice’s occupational medical services include:
The practice also performs consultations for personal protective equipment and primary injury prevention. CompChoice’s physicians are specially trained to evaluate cause-and-effect relationships between work tasks or exposures and injury or illness. The providers strive to give top quality and cost-effective medical care to employees while maintaining an understanding for the business needs of employers.
“This acquisition is perfectly in line with our mission to make health care more personal and convenient,” Strada Healthcare Chief Medical Officer Dr. Joel Bessmer said.
“The occupational health industry is ripe for innovation, and we’re excited to show employers how our approach to personalized health care far exceeds the industry standard in occupational health.”
Strada Healthcare was founded to bring innovative and advanced primary care solutions to the market while lowering costs and improving outcomes. DPC is a rapidly growing model for delivering primary health care. Members pay a low monthly membership fee, which gives them access to their physician through traditional office visits along with phone calls, text messages, email and virtual visits. DPC physicians have fewer patients, which means greater availability, more in-depth visits, and a focus on preventive care. In addition to DPC, Strada’s services for employers include onsite clinics, near-site clinics, occupational health clinics, and virtual care for urgent and mental health needs.
Primary care services comprise 80 to 90 percent of typical health care needs. Covered services for Strada members range from annual physicals and lab work to acute-care visits and basic mental health. No co-pays are assessed, and members can avoid many of the high out-of-pocket costs that would otherwise be billed through insurance companies.
Strada Healthcare was founded in 2016 by Dr. Joel Bessmer in Omaha, Neb., and is one of the region’s largest Direct Primary Care (DPC) organizations with more than 60 locations across nine states: Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, Wisconsin, Texas, Michigan, Arizona and Washington, D.C. care that removes insurance Strada Healthcare is pioneering an innovative approach to health ; a from the primary care setting for flat monthly fee. more information on For more information Strada patients receive unlimited access to their primary care provider on Strada Healthcare, visit CompChoice , visit compchoice.net .wwwStradaHealthcare.com .
Strada Healthcare has acquired CompChoice Inc, an Occupational health services provider based out of Omaha, Nebraska.
“As one of our region’s largest direct primary care networks, we find the needs of our patients, physicians and corporate customers growing,” Strada Healthcare President Michael Wade said. “Bringing CompChoice into our Strada Healthcare group expands our ability to provide advanced primary care solutions and continue our mission to create a better primary care model.”
CompChoice’s occupational medical services include:
The practice also performs consultations for personal protective equipment and primary injury prevention. CompChoice’s physicians are specially trained to evaluate cause-and-effect relationships between work tasks or exposures and injury or illness. The providers strive to give top quality and cost-effective medical care to employees while maintaining an understanding for the business needs of employers.
“This acquisition is perfectly in line with our mission to make health care more personal and convenient,” Strada Healthcare Chief Medical OfficerDr. Joel Bessmer said.
“The occupational health industry is ripe for innovation, and we’re excited to show employers how our approach to personalized health care far exceeds the industry standard in occupational health.”
Strada Healthcare was founded to bring innovative and advanced primary care solutions to the market while lowering costs and improving outcomes. DPC is a rapidly growing model for delivering primary health care. Members pay a low monthly membership fee, which gives them access to their physician through traditional office visits along with phone calls, text messages, email and virtual visits. DPC physicians have fewer patients, which means greater availability, more in-depth visits, and a focus on preventive care. In addition to DPC, Strada’s services for employers include onsite clinics, near-site clinics, occupational health clinics, and virtual care for urgent and mental health needs.
Primary care services comprise 80 to 90 percent of typical health care needs. Covered services for Strada members range from annual physicals and lab work to acute-care visits and basic mental health. No co-pays are assessed, and members can avoid many of the high out-of-pocket costs that would otherwise be billed through insurance companies.
Strada Healthcare was founded in 2016 by Dr. Joel Bessmer in Omaha, Neb., and is one of the region’s largest Direct Primary Care (DPC) organizations with more than 60 locations across nine states: Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, Wisconsin, Texas, Michigan, Arizona and Washington, D.C. care that removes insurance Strada Healthcare is pioneering an innovative approach to health ; a from the primary care setting for flat monthly fee. more information on For more information Strada patients receive unlimited access to their primary care provider on Strada Healthcare, visit CompChoice , visit compchoice.net .wwwStradaHealthcare.com .
Wellness and prevention are two of the most important components of healthcare. When it comes to prevention, one of the best things you can do for your health is to get annual bloodwork done. With a simple lab draw, your primary care provider can detect a wide variety of health problems, including diabetes, anemia, heart disease, kidney disease, cancer, and more. That’s why it’s so important to get annual bloodwork done; it’s a simple way to catch potential problems early and get ahead of them. There’s no excuse not to get tested—especially when Strada Healthcare offers membership plans that include annual bloodwork at such an affordable price. Our memberships include the following annual labs:
Getting annual bloodwork done is a smart investment in your health—and your wallet. Don’t wait until you’re sick to get tested; by then it may be too late. Get ahead of the game by getting annual bloodwork by becoming a member of Strada Healthcare. When you become a member of Strada Healthcare, you’re joining a community of people who are committed to their health and wellbeing. We offer our members comprehensive coverage and peace of mind so they can focus on living their best lives. Contact us today to learn more about our membership plans and how we can help you take charge of your health.
