The Holland Sentinel recently featured DPC physician Christa Murphy. Dr. Murphy, who is the owner and solo practitioner at Joy Family Health, is competing for a $10,000 grand prize . The contest, WomanUp &Pitch is a funding opportunity for women looking to start or grow an existing business located in Western Michigan. Murphy, a finalist in the competition, pitched her business concept to a panel of business and community leaders on Thursday, March 3. The results will be announced shortly. If she wins one of the cash prizes, Dr. Murphy will the money to obtain top-notch computer and medical technology, that will allow her to improve efficiency and expand services and value for my patients.

Murphy is a one-woman show. She currently has 35 patients, and is hoping to grow by 10 patients a month before capping at 250. 

Dr. Murphy’s vision for healthcare has always been a patient-focused career. She has had many diverse experiences over the years as a healthcare provider and has practiced medicine not only in the US and Zambia but also served in other countries around the world caring for the needy and underserved.

After working two decades in the medical field, Dr. Murphy decided that there had to be a better way.

I didn’t become a physician to be on a treadmill of endless paperwork and rushed patient visits, she said. Those systems are really fueled by high overhead because of insurance and administration-heavy systems. I went into medicine to care for people.

In addition to her commitment to her profession, Dr. Murphy has also been the mother to eight children. She and her husband were recipients of the prestigious Angels in Adoption Award by the US Congress for their work in promoting the adoption of children with HIV.

We wish Dr. Murphy continued growth and success in her practice, and we will keep you posted on the results of the competition.