Doctors of South Carolina joining together to preserve, promote, and protect the independent practice of medicine to ensure that patients in South Carolina have alternatives and access to high quality, doctor-driven care.
Doctors of South Carolina joining together to preserve, promote, and protect the independent practice of medicine to ensure that patients in South Carolina have alternatives and access to high quality, doctor-driven care.
Dr. Marcelo Hochman
As the year winds down and we look ahead to the holidays, I find myself thinking about what a pivotal time this is for medicine in South Carolina. It’s a season of reflection, yes - but also preparation. When the legislature reconvenes in January, we’ll have another opportunity to make meaningful strides toward restoring the kind of healthcare we know is possible- where doctors
are trusted, patients have choices, and care is driven by values, not volume.
One major step forward this year was South Carolina’s move to eliminate non-compete clauses for physicians. This change will have far-reaching effects - not only for doctors currently under contract, but for the future of medicine in our state.
Non-competes have long been used to limit physician movement and keep doctors tied to large systems, even when they’re ready for something new. But non-competes also have ripple effects: they reduce competition, drive up costs, and limit patient access to care. As highlighted in the Journal of Health Care Law & Policy article, “A Competition Perspective on Physician NonCompete Agreements,” restrictive covenants tend to suppress market responsiveness and can contribute to physician shortages in certain regions.*
By contrast, when physicians are free to move, markets become more dynamic, communities benefit from greater choice, and new practices are more likely to open and thrive.
This shift creates real opportunity. For those currently employed, it may be the first time in years that you’ve had true professional flexibility. For independent physicians, it’s a chance to grow, partner, expand services, or mentor those exploring life beyond employment.
And that’s where organizations like IndeDocs come in.
We exist to connect, inform, and advocate for physicians who believe in a better model. Whether you’re just starting to consider your options or you’ve been in independent practice for decades, you’re not alone - and you don’t have to navigate this next chapter on your own.
As we move into the new year, I encourage you to stay engaged. Reach out. Start conversations. Join the community that’s working every day to protect the future of physician-led care.
We’ll be ready when the legislature returns in January - and we’d be proud to have your voice alongside ours.
Warm wishes for a healthy and restorative holiday season,
Dr. Marcelo Hochman
IndeDocs President
*NIH: National Library of Medicine
www.pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
“A Competition Perspective on Physician Non-compete Agreements“
by Daniel J. Gilman
Space is limited, so secure your spot today to be part of the movement reshaping healthcare!
This year, the summit will take place in beautiful, historic Charleston—a city known for its cobblestone streets, waterfront charm, and Southern hospitality. Our host venue, the Hyatt House Charleston / Historic District, offers a modern, welcoming atmosphere with spacious suites, thoughtful amenities, and easy access to the city’s world-class dining, shopping, and cultural landmarks.
The IndeDocs organization is proud to recognize the outstanding leadership and accomplishments of our current president, Dr. Marcelo Hochman.
A double Board-certified head, neck, and facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Hochman has built an extraordinary career defined by medical excellence, advocacy, and service to his community.
As the founder of Charleston’s Facial Surgery Center and Past President of the Charleston County Medical Society, Dr. Hochman has long been a trusted voice in medicine. His peers and patients alike consistently acknowledge his expertise he has been repeatedly listed in The Best Doctors in America, a testament to his commitment to the highest standards of care. His skill and dedication were further recognized when he received The Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, for his significant contributions to healthcare.
Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Hochman’s compassion shines through his work as Founder and Medical Director of the Hemangioma International Treatment Center. In this role, he provides pro-bono care for children with vascular anomalies, ensuring that families who might not otherwise have access to specialized treatment receive the life-changing care they need. His efforts have touched countless lives, demonstrating the powerful intersection of medical expertise and humanitarian service.
In 2025, Dr. Hochman was named one of South Carolina’s 23 Most Influential Leaders, an honor that celebrates individuals across the state who exemplify leadership, vision, integrity, and community commitment. This recognition reflects not only his impact as a surgeon and advocate, but also his role as a thought leader guiding the future of healthcare in South Carolina and beyond.
As President of IndeDocs, Dr. Hochman continues to advance the mission of protecting and promoting independent medical practices. His leadership underscores the importance of preserving the physician-patient relationship, empowering doctors to provide care with integrity, and championing reforms that prioritize patients and communities.
Dr. Marcelo Hochman embodies the values of excellence, service, and innovation. His work has influenced policy, elevated the practice of medicine, and—most importantly transformed the lives of patients and families. We are honored to celebrate his achievements and grateful for his leadership in shaping the future of independent medicine.
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, independent practices must manage not only the clinical needs of their patients but also the responsibilities of being employers. One of the most valuable benefits a practice can offer its team is access to functional, affordable health insurance options. With Open Enrollment running from November 1 – December 15, 2025, now is the time for practice owners to evaluate their options and prepare for the year ahead.
IndeDocs had the opportunity to speak with Joe Schaub and Valen Cook of Schaub Insurance of Columbia, SC. Known for making the complex world of health insurance simple to understand, Schaub Insurance helps South Carolina families and business owners navigate their choices with clarity. By breaking down options and eliminating the guesswork, Joe, Valen, and their team empower clients to select coverage with confidence. In their conversation with IndeDocs, they shared valuable insights for independent practices—highlighting actionable strategies for supporting employees with health insurance benefits as the landscape is expected to shift in 2026.
With health insurance subsidies expected to decrease in the coming year, some Americans may choose to go uninsured. Even so, it’s important to note that 95% of Americans still qualify for a subsidy toward their coverage, based on household size and income. For independent practices, this makes providing employees with clear, affordable insurance pathways not only a practical solution, but also a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining staff.
A Quick Note on Rules: Employers with fewer than 50 employees are not legally required to provide health insurance. Still, offering coverage choices can be a valuable tool for attracting and retaining quality employees. For employers with 50 or more employees, the Affordable Care Act mandates that health insurance be offered. No matter the size of the practice, independent employers have a range of flexible options available to meet their needs and support their teams.
Independent practices have more choices than ever before to balance affordability with employee needs. Options include:
Marketplace Guidance: Practices can support employees in navigating the Health Insurance Marketplace, where individuals and families can select plans tailored to their circumstances. Tax reimbursement qualifications—though slated for change in 2026 will still help offset costs.
ICHRAs (Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Accounts): With an ICHRA, employers set a monthly contribution they’re comfortable with, while employees choose the coverage that works best for their families. Contributions are tax-deductible for the practice, excluded from the employee’s gross income, and easy to administer through programs such as AccrueHealth.
Concierge Partnerships: Independent practices can partner with local concierge primary care providers to cover a monthly or annual membership fee—whether funded by the employer, employee, or both. This arrangement ensures access to primary and urgent care, while employees can use Marketplace plans for specialist visits and catastrophic coverage.
Payroll Express Programs: Employers can make individual plans more convenient by offering payroll deductions, bank draft billing, and access to discounts through networks like BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina—all while keeping employees eligible for subsidies.
List Billing: Some insurers allow employers to consolidate premiums for employees who choose their own individual policies, simplifying administration without taking away flexibility.
Hybrid or Level-Funded Plans: These plans blend self-funding with traditional group coverage, offering structured tiers and cost-sensitive designs that work well for practices seeking stability.
Health insurance remains one of the most valued employee benefits. For independent practices competing with larger health systems, providing accessible and creative coverage options can mean the difference between retaining top talent and experiencing costly turnover. By planning now, practices can stay compliant, competitive, and ready for whatever changes 2026 may bring.
The bottom line: Independent practices don’t need to mirror hospital systems to succeed as employers. With tailored solutions—ranging from Marketplace support to ICHRAs and hybrid plans—practices can offer meaningful benefits that strengthen both their teams and their long-term future.
Independent practices don’t have to navigate insurance decisions alone. Schaub Insurance is committed to simplifying the process, ensuring that practices can offer meaningful healthcare options to their employees while staying competitive in a changing environment.
valen.cook@schaubinsurancellc.com joe.schaub@schaubinsuancellc.com
https://schaubinsurancellc.com 803-708-2187
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AstheonlyearlyliteracymodelendorsedbytheAmericanAcademyofPediatrics,ReachOut andReadtouchesthelivesof4.6millionchildrenannuallyacrosseveryU.S.state.Bygiving familiesthetoolsandencouragementtoreadtogetherfrombirth,theprogramhelpslaythe foundationforschoolreadiness,strongerbonds,andlifelonglearning.
Independentpracticesofall specialtiescandrawinspiration fromReachOutandRead’s simple,scalableapproach using everydayencountersas touchpointstostrengthenpatient relationshipsandfosterlong-term wellness.
Supporting Patients and Teams Through the Season
The holiday season is one of the most joyful times of the year, yet it also brings unique challenges for both patients and independent practices. Packed schedules, family commitments, travel, and seasonal stress can make it easy to let important health
matters slip through the cracks. Independent practices are uniquely positioned to support their patients and their own teams by emphasizing preparation and proactive care during this busy time.
Remind Patients: Health Shouldn’t Take a Holiday
Patients often struggle to balance daily routines with the added pressures of the season. This is an opportunity for independent practices to show empathy and offer gentle reminders:
Check Prescriptions – Encourage patients to make sure they have enough medication to cover holiday travel or office closures.
Schedule Appointments Early – Remind patients to take care of follow-up visits or wellness checks before schedules fill up.
for Mental Health – Acknowledge the emotional toll of the holidays and remind patients that seeking support is always a healthy step. These small reminders can prevent big disruptions and demonstrate that your practice understands the realities of everyday life.
Offer Actionable Solutions
Independent practices can build trust and strengthen patient relationships by providing practical ways to prepare:
Provide a Holiday Health Checklist – A simple flyer, email, or social post reminding patients about
Highlight Telehealth Options – Patients traveling or unable to visit in person will appreciate unable to visit in person will appreciate knowing they have access to care wherever they are. prescriptions, travel, vaccinations, and Telehealth availability.
Communicate Office Hours Clearly – Share any closures or adjusted schedules well in advance.
While focusing on patients is essential, holiday preparation also extends to practice operations and staff:
Review Employee Coverage – Make sure benefits and coverage questions are addressed before year-end.
Create On-Call Plans – Ensure providers and staff know who is covering calls, messages, and urgent needs.
Balance Workloads – Acknowledge that staff also juggle holiday demands; thoughtful scheduling and backup plans prevent burnout.
When practices prepare in advance for the holiday season and year-end demands, patients feel supported and staff feel valued, confident, and ready to navigate holiday demands.
The holiday season can be joyful, but also busy and stressful. The graphic below serves as an example of a simple Holiday Health Checklist that independent practices can share in-office or on social media to help patients prepare with confidence.
Because your health shouldn’t take a holiday
✅ Prescriptions – Make sure you have enough medication to last through holiday travel or office closures.
✅ Appointments – Schedule follow-ups, annual checkups, or lab work before the calendar fills up.
✅ Vaccinations – Stay on track with flu shots and other seasonal vaccines to protect yourself and your family.
✅ Travel Prep – If you’re traveling, pack your medications, insurance card, and a list of your providers’ contact info.
✅ Telehealth Access – Know how to connect with us virtually if you need care while away.
✨ Plan ahead. Stay well. Enjoy the season with peace of mind. ✨
(Include your practice’s logo, phone number, website, and QR code if you’d like patients to schedule or log into a portal easily.)
The IndeDocs Board of Directors are passionate advocates for independent medicine and have dedicated their careers to upholding the doctor-patient relationship as the most important tenet of medicine.
DR.MARCELOHOCHMAN PRESIDENT
Learn more about the IndeDocs Board of Directors and how they support the autonomy and patient-centric approach of independent practice:
www.IndeDocs.com/about-us
IndeDocs, a proud 501(c)(6) professional trade association of independent doctors in South Carolina, is dedicated to preserving both the esteemed profession of medicine and the vital doctorpatient relationship. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, whose unwavering support directly connects them with independent primary care and specialty physicians throughout the state.
Your sponsorship is not only a powerful marketing asset that elevates your brand or business, but also a unique opportunity to forge lasting relationships and showcase your products and services to South Carolina’s premier independent physicians. Thank you for partnering with IndeDocs and for investing in the future of healthcare in our community.
www.indedocs.com/sponsorship Explore more about our sponsorship opportunities by visiting:
The independent practice of medicine is a viable alternative for all specialties. It takes an organization that believes in this and is committed to promoting and facilitating this option.
Visit our website to learn more about becoming an IndeDocs member: https://indedocs.com/membership/
OUR MISSION AND VALUES: OUR MISSION AND VALUES:
To promote and protect the doctor-patient relationship by preserving the professionalism of medicine through independent practice. IndeDocs serves its member physicians to facilitate the delivery of the highest quality and most cost effective medical care.
Membership opportunities:
PHYSICIAN MEMBERSHIP
AFFILIATE SOUTH CAROLINA PHYSICIAN MEMBERSHIP
AFFILIATE PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP
AFFILIATE SOUTH CAROLINA PHYSICIAN
IN-TRAINING MEMBERSHIP
