Growing up with a physician father gave Cathie McNeil a unique view of health care. Her father had been an OB-GYN in an era when patients called their doctor directly, even outside of office hours.
Decades later, when she saw Housecall Providers Primary Care Provider Dr. Page Jossi visiting another resident at her community, Cathie immediately recognized the potential benefits. To Cathie, Housecall Providers embodied that same personal touch.
Ready for change
After years of seeing a rotating cast of providers at a large practice, where she rarely saw the same doctor twice, Cathie was ready for change. The presence of Dr. Jossi transformed her health care experience. Instead of feeling like a brief appointment sandwiched between others, she appreciated the continuity and familiarity created by Dr. Jossi’s thorough visits.
Cathie described the dynamic: Dr. Jossi’s visits meant she felt known, with her doctor fully aware of her history and current issues. Even casual encounters in the facility were welcomed opportunities for connection. If Cathie ran into Dr. Jossi, she could mention a concern on the spot, and Dr. Jossi would readily take the time to discuss it.
The benefits of house calls
This relationship proved invaluable a few years ago when Cathie developed encephalitis, which led to symptoms resembling dementia. Her son later recounted how unrecognizable her behavior had become. Dr. Jossi acted swiftly, arranging for Cathie to be transferred for surgery despite pandemic-related challenges. After the surgery, Dr. Jossi resumed regular home-based visits, providing Cathie with the care and reassurance she needed.
“She does her exam right here,” Cathie explained. “I don’t have to schedule a ride; they come to me. I’ve had an EKG done here, had blood drawn.”
Having worked as a dental hygienist, Cathie understood the demands and limitations of time-constrained appointments. She appreciates that house calls offered benefits not only to patients but also to doctors, allowing them to truly engage with patients as individuals, not just medical cases to solve.
Looking forward
Cathie’s passion for science and the outdoors continues to enrich her life. From her window and her small cactus garden, she observes wildlife with her binoculars and enjoys walks to spot bald eagles and feed squirrels. Amidst these activities, she looks forward to visits from Housecall Providers.
“When Dr. Jossi comes in, I feel like she knows me and I can talk to her like I’m talking to a really good friend,” Cathie shared.
It sometimes seems like the benefits of house calls are a well-kept secret. Cathie wants to spread the word.