Episode 65: S2| Transforming Healthcare Delivery in Rural America

Introduction

In a remarkable episode of the “Seven Figure Journey” podcast, Dr. Kara Hartl shares her groundbreaking journey from launching an ophthalmology practice in remote Alaska to revolutionizing healthcare delivery through her latest venture, Troy Medical. Dr. Hartl’s story is not just about medical practice; it’s about overcoming geographical and systemic barriers to bring world-class healthcare to underserved regions.

A Bold Start

Fresh out of residency at the prestigious Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Dr. Hartl did something most would consider unthinkable—she moved to Fairbanks, Alaska, to start an ophthalmology practice from scratch. Her decision wasn’t driven by the harsh weather but by an unyielding desire to raise the standard of medical care in interior Alaska. This move marked the beginning of her first company, which focused on delivering exceptional ophthalmological services in a region where medical specialists were scarce.

Challenges and Innovations

Despite her success in ophthalmology, Dr. Hartl encountered significant challenges in addressing the broader medical needs of her community. The scarcity of specialists in other fields often forced patients to undertake arduous journeys to receive care. This glaring gap in healthcare accessibility led to her visionary step during the COVID-19 pandemic—embracing telehealth to bridge the service gap, thus founding Troy Medical.

Troy Medical: A New Paradigm

Troy Medical was born out of necessity and innovation. Dr. Hartl utilized telehealth technology not just to consult remotely but to integrate comprehensive healthcare services in rural settings. Her model involves a hybrid approach, where telehealth complements physical medical services provided locally, ensuring that patients receive timely and effective care without the need to travel long distances.

Expanding Horizons

From a 30,000-square-foot center in Alaska, Dr. Hartl is now scaling Troy Medical across Texas and planning expansions across the United States. Her goal is to address the systemic issue of medical underservice in rural America—a problem affecting 83 million people, approximately 25% of the U.S. population.

Business Strategies and Leadership Insights

Dr. Hartl emphasizes the importance of keeping the ‘why’ of her mission front and center: to provide top-notch medical care to underserved communities. She credits her success to a steadfast focus on this mission and the systematic creation of processes that ensure the delivery of high-quality medical care. Her leadership philosophy revolves around creating a system that supports the mission, ensuring that every team member understands and aligns with the purpose of their work.

Conclusion

Dr. Kara Hartl’s journey is a testament to the power of vision and determination in transforming healthcare. Her journey underscores a vital message for healthcare professionals and entrepreneurs alike: with the right vision and dedication, it is possible to make substantial, positive changes in even the most challenging environments.

About Dr. Kara Hartl

Dr. Kara Hartl, founder of Troy Medical, is an innovator and entrepreneur dedicated to enhancing healthcare delivery in medically underserved areas of America. With a rich background in ophthalmology and a passionate commitment to her community, Dr. Hartl continues to push the boundaries of medical care through technology and community-focused practices.