Is traditional healthcare failing patients? Why are people waiting months to see a doctor, and are alternatives like concierge medicine, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and GLP-1 medications changing the way we approach healthcare? In this episode of On the Record, I sit down with Dr. Raj Patel, founder of Denali East Group Concierge Medicine and Aesthetics in Greenville, North Carolina, to discuss his approach to patient care and why he believes the traditional healthcare system needs to change. Unlike many concierge medicine practices, Denali East Group operates on a direct-pay model without requiring monthly membership fees. Dr. Patel explains why patients who already have health insurance are choosing to pay out of pocket for longer appointments, faster access to care, and more individualized treatment. We also dive into some of today's most talked-about medical topics, including GLP-1 weight loss medications, Ozempic, hormone replacement therapy, perimenopause, testosterone therapy, childhood vaccine consultations, Botox, dermal fillers, and patient safety. Dr. Patel also discusses Greenville's growing shortage of OB-GYN appointments, his practice's early pregnancy care services, and a specialized ultrasound facial mapping training program for aesthetic injectors. Whether you're interested in alternative healthcare options, struggling to get answers from your doctor, or simply curious about the future of medicine, this conversation offers a look at one physician's approach to changing patient care in Eastern North Carolina. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Meet Dr. Raj Patel of Denali East Group 00:34 – What is concierge medicine, and how does direct-pay healthcare work? 02:38 – Why Denali East Group doesn't require monthly membership fees 04:41 – Why insured patients are choosing to pay out of pocket 06:11 – Why can't patients request their own lab work? 07:37 – Treating the root cause instead of just prescribing medication 09:55 – Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), perimenopause, and testosterone 12:15 – The Women's Health Initiative study and concerns about hormone therapy 15:41 – GLP-1 medications, weight loss, and comprehensive blood testing 19:22 – What are GLP-1s? Ozempic, muscle loss, and side effects 24:27 – Childhood vaccinations and individualized vaccine consultations 27:36 – Botox, dermal fillers, and specialized aesthetic injector training 30:05 – Who is qualified to administer Botox and filler in North Carolina? 37:37 – Greenville's growth and the demand for accessible healthcare 42:19 – Greenville's OB-GYN shortage and early pregnancy care options ABOUT DR. RAJ PATEL Dr. Raj Patel leads Denali East Group Concierge Medicine and Aesthetics in Greenville, NC. His practice offers direct-pay primary care, hormone replacement therapy, weight management consultations, aesthetic procedures, and other medical services. Learn more about Denali East Group: https://www.denalieastgroup.com/ ABOUT ON THE RECORD On the Record features conversations with the people shaping North Carolina, from business owners and community leaders to policymakers, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Subscribe for more conversations about the issues, businesses, and people making an impact across Eastern North Carolina and beyond. 👍 Like this video if you enjoyed the conversation. 💬 Comment below: Would you consider paying out of pocket for longer, more personalized doctor visits? 🔔 Subscribe to ENCTV for more episodes of On the Record. **Medical disclaimer:** This interview is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The medical opinions and treatment approaches discussed are those of the guest. Consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual circumstances. For more information about Eastern North Carolina, questions, comments, concerns, or to be a trusted source or sponsor of ENCTV, e-mail: emily@emilymcallister.com To browse available homes in Eastern NC: https://www.emilysellsgreenvillenc.com/ Follow us on socials: https://www.instagram.com/realtoremilymcallister/ https://www.facebook.com/emcallister1996/ https://www.instagram.com/eastnctv/ #ConciergeMedicine #DrRajPatel #GreenvilleNC #GLP1 #HormoneReplacementTherapy #EasternNorthCarolina #OnTheRecord #ENCTV