Medical Cooperative Care for Women Who Feel Dismissed by Doctors

In a recent KFF survey, almost 25% of women reported being treated unfairly or disrespectfully by their healthcare providers in the last 2 years. If you’re a woman, this statistic likely doesn’t surprise you. In important ways, the current healthcare system simply isn’t set up to meet women’s needs. 

Stephanie Taylor, MD, PhD, operates A Woman’s Wellspring following a different model. She is a Slow Doc and develops a relationship with each of her patients. This is possible because A Woman’s Wellspring is a medical cooperative and offers a comprehensive medical program.

Let’s address some of the most common questions people have about the medical cooperative model. We assert that it creates an atmosphere where women can get the care they need, along with the respect and attention that is so often missing in conventional medical practices. 

What is different about A Woman’s Wellspring? 

You may be surprised by just how different it is to receive care in a practice where you are the priority. Here are some of the main differences. 

How care is paid for

We don’t accept insurance. Instead, you pay an annual membership fee, and then for office visits, labs, and other services as needed. You can pay the membership fee in a lump sum or make quarterly payments. 

You may be surprised to learn just how affordable care can be when you take insurance companies and health systems out of the equation. One example is the cost of a complete annual exam—only $20 per month when you break it down. 

The annual exam

You’ve probably had an annual exam before, but you probably haven’t had one that serves as the centerpiece of your entire care plan. Your comprehensive visit is unhurried and gives you a chance to discuss your concerns and ask questions. It also allows Dr. Taylor to learn about you, order any tests you may need, suggest screenings, and offer complementary services that may benefit your health. 

Complementary medicine

In a conventional medical practice, you usually see a professional trained in Western-based medicine. It’s unlikely you’ll see a dietician or an herbalist. Dr. Taylor takes an integrated approach to treating illness, incorporating diet, exercise, supplements, and other therapies such as biofeedback and meditation. 

Educational programs

As part of your membership fee, you have access to our educational programs. We want you to be a partner in your care and to have agency over your own health. Our educational programs are designed to help with those goals. 

Explore a new model of care

If you’d like to work with your provider and be accorded the respect you deserve, we’d love to talk to you. Schedule an appointment at A Woman’s Wellspring. We’re happy to answer your questions and discuss our practice in more detail.