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Naval Flight Surgeon to Family Doc…The Journey of Dr. Otten!

Dr. Otten, a former naval flight surgeon turned family physician, shares how his military background and firsthand experience with burnout led him to reimagine primary care through stronger patient relationships and a direct care model. The conversation explores the personal and systemic factors driving physician dissatisfaction and what a more sustainable, patient-centered practice looks like. His journey highlights broader themes of healthcare transformation and the role of individual clinicians in driving change.

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By Brian Urban · · Brian UrbanFinthriveNaval Flight SurgeonOur Quadruple Aim
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Key takeaways

01

Dr. Otten's transition from naval flight surgeon to family medicine was shaped by a desire for meaningful, ongoing patient relationships.

02

Physician burnout served as a catalyst for exploring alternative care models focused on sustainability and patient-centeredness.

03

Direct primary care and relationship-driven medicine are presented as pathways to transforming the broader healthcare system.

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In the latest episode of Healthcare Rethink, host Brian Urban explores the unique journey of Dr. Todd Otten, a distinguished naval flight surgeon who transitioned into a family physician and is the Co-Founder of Our Quadruple Aim. The episode provides insights into Dr. Otten's experiences and the broader context of healthcare transformation.

Dr. Otten discusses his career trajectory from his days as a naval flight surgeon to his current role. The podcast highlights the inspiration behind his book, "Ripple of Change," which chronicles his burnout and the profound patient connections that revitalized his passion for medicine. Through humorous anecdotes and thoughtful reflections, Dr. Otten sheds light on the evolving landscape of healthcare and the importance of patient-centered care.

Join Urban and Dr. Otten as they explore the challenges and triumphs of a naval flight surgeon turned family doctor, offering a rich narrative emphasizing empathy and innovation in medicine.

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About the author

Brian Urban
Brian UrbanDirector of Innovation & Emerging Markets

Brian Urban has a deep skill set in health promotion and product development for rare disease and senior populations with Large Health Plans and Specialty Pharmacy. Urban has served as a speaker on such topics for the Alzheimer’s Association, Obediah Cole Prostate Cancer Foundation, Cigna Corp and Utica University Institute for the study of integrative healthcare. Urban has received a Masters of Science in Exercise Physiology-Health Promotion, Masters of Business Administration in Market Development and is currently completing a Masters in Public Health at Dartmouth College. Urban is currently a research-fellow sponsored by a Robert Wood Johnson Grant supporting Utica University public health research in Upstate New York.

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About the Experts

Brian Urban
Brian Urban

Director of Innovation & Emerging Companies at EY

Brian Urban is a Director of Innovation & Emerging Companies at EY, focused on healthcare transformation and emerging business models. He hosts conversations with healthcare leaders exploring innovation at the intersection of clinical care, technology, and policy. His work spans value-based care, health equity, and the future of primary care.

DO
Dr. Otten

Family Physician / Former Naval Flight Surgeon

Dr. Otten is a family medicine physician who transitioned from serving as a naval flight surgeon to practicing direct primary care. His military experience and personal encounters with clinician burnout informed his approach to building deeper patient relationships and advocating for healthcare transformation.

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