The case for independent practice, with Paul Merrick, M.D., and Dan Greenleaf of Duly Health and Care

Paul Merrick, M.D., and Dan Greenleaf of Duly Health and Care join the show to discuss why independent medical practices deliver high-quality care at lower costs — and why that matters for the future of U.S. health care.

They share insights from a Duly study on health care spending, the importance of physician autonomy and how independent groups can stay competitive amid industry consolidation.

Learn more about their report, “Chicago provider market trends: Key considerations for employers,” in this Medical Economics article.

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Music Credits:
Light Jazz Piano Trio by Summer Nights - stock.adobe.com
Relaxing Lounge by Classy Call me Man - stock.adobe.com
A Textbook Example by Skip Peck - stock.adobe.com

Editor's note: Episode timestamps and transcript produced using AI tools.

0:20 – Introduction
Austin Littrell introduces the guests and outlines the episode’s focus on independent medicine.

1:35 – Defining independence
How Duly differs from large hospital systems despite its size and reach.

2:10 – Governance and ownership
Merrick explains Duly’s physician-led board and private equity partnership structure.

5:00 – Cost and quality advantage
Greenleaf compares Duly’s lower prices and stronger outcomes against Chicago hospital systems.

8:20 – The Avalere Health study
How Duly’s collaboration quantified the value of independent practice in the Chicago market.

11:00 – Breaking nonprofit myths
Merrick argues that outcomes — not ownership status — define real community value.

14:10 – Study findings
Duly patients experience lower costs, fewer hospital stays and faster follow-up care.

19:20 – Primary care and coordination
Why integrated teams and close specialist ties improve patient outcomes.

21:10 – Using AI to cut friction
How Duly applies artificial intelligence to streamline documentation, scheduling and coding.

23:50 – Battling burnout
Inside Duly’s “Joy in Medicine” program and how it helps physicians rediscover purpose.

27:35 – Prevention and wellness
Duly’s “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, culinary medicine and supplement education.

32:15 – Message to independents
Advice for smaller practices on collaboration, technology and sustaining autonomy.

36:40 – Closing thoughts
Greenleaf and Merrick on the future of physician-led medicine.

37:10 – Outro
Host wrap-up, credits and subscription reminder.