Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Evelyn Okunoghae, DNP.
Hi Dr. Evelyn, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have been in the medical field for almost 3 dacades now. I started out as a patient care technician (PCT) in a hemodialysis center. A year later I enrolled into a Licensed Vocational Nursing Program and shortly afterwards progressed through Registered Nursing program. In 2008, I attained my Master’s in Nursing as Family Nurse Practitioner and in 2013 I attained my Doctorate In Nursing Practice (DNP) as the terminal nursing degree. My educational journey emerged with a Bachelor’s degree from University of Benin in Nigeria in 1996 in Health Sciences.
I have worked in various settings until 2020 after the Covid, I decided to venture out and open my own practice. Dallas Health and Wellness Clinic was officially birthed in early part of 2021.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Some of the struggles were staffing issues and 3rd parties reimbursements, claims denials and prior-authorizations, overhead costs. Securing organic patients with little no-shows/cancelations (seems to be problem everywhere, nothing really prepares you for this). Lastly being caught between insurances and patients. Some patients expect to pay nothing, maybe just a copay at best, because they have insurance, but shockingly, being told, they may be responsible for the full payment of the visit due to deductibles not being met, can become very frustrating to them and oftentimes, are unprepared for.
You may not be able to take time off at will because you work by yourself. You also find yourself functioning in multiple roles in the practice.
Overall I’m thankful and contented for the transition in owning my own practice.
As you know, we’re big fans of Dallas Health and Wellness Clinic. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Dallas health and Wellness Clinic provide quality primary care, weight loss TRT services amongst others.
We offer a variety of services both across lifespan both chronic and acute illnesses, weight-loss, womens’ and Men’s health. Physicals (pre-employment, sports, DOT physical (CDL and non-CDL licenses for truck drivers), Aviation examinations, Presurgical and Surgical clearances. I am also a CME (Certified Medical Examiner). Medication refills, laboratories. Televisit is also offered at the patient’s convenience.
We accept most insurances and also offer cash-based options for those without insurance, the fees are highly discounted.
I am very passionate about providing quality care to my patients and approach each patient as a partner in ensuring their health needs are met.
What sets us apart from others, is our patient-centered approach to health care, listening and collaborating with patients in their care and encouraging them to be involved in their own health care decisions.
Minimal wait time, same day appointment. Creating trust and loyalty.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I also mentor and precept students for those looking for a practice to complete their clinical hours.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dallashwclinic.com
- Instagram: @dallas_hw_clinic
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dallashwclinic
- TikTok: tiktok.com/@dallashwclinic
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