Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Fatima Iqbal. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Fatima, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
One of the biggest risks I’ve ever taken was starting my own medical practice. After years of working in healthcare, I saw firsthand how large practices often left patients feeling like just another number. Many struggled with preventable issues like weight gain, stress-related imbalances, and hormonal health challenges, particularly women navigating menopause, perimenopause, and PCOS. These patients needed more time, attention, and a personalized approach—something traditional models rarely provided.
I decided to take a leap of faith, investing my life savings to create a practice that focuses on addressing these unmet needs. It was a daunting decision—leaving the security of a salaried job, taking on the financial burden, and navigating the uncertainties of building a business from the ground up. I knew there was no guarantee of success, but the desire to make a meaningful difference outweighed the fear.
So far, the journey has been both challenging and rewarding. Seeing patients finally feel heard, valued, and empowered in their health has validated the risk I took. While the road hasn’t been easy, it’s been fulfilling to know that the leap I took is changing lives for the better.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m Dr. Fatima Iqbal, a physician with a deep passion for transforming lives through personalized care. My journey into healthcare began with a desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s health and well-being, but over the years, I noticed significant gaps in the traditional healthcare model—particularly in how it addressed weight management, hormonal health, and the challenges women face during menopause, perimenopause, and conditions like PCOS. These issues often require more time, attention, and understanding than standard primary care offers.
That realization inspired me to take a leap and start my own practice, Crabtree Health, near Lake Crabtree in Raleigh. My focus is on offering direct, personalized care to individuals who often feel overlooked in larger healthcare systems. My services include weight management programs, hormonal analysis, and counseling, as well as primary care for those seeking a more tailored approach. What sets my practice apart is the dedication to truly listening to my patients and designing care plans that work for their unique needs.
I’m proud of building a practice where patients feel heard, supported, and empowered to take control of their health. One of the main things I want potential clients to know is that my practice is built around a vision of care that is accessible, compassionate, and tailored to each individual. Whether it’s helping a patient shed the physical and emotional weight they’ve been carrying or guiding a woman through the challenges of hormonal imbalance, I’m here to be their partner in health. What drives me every day is the belief that everyone deserves a space where they feel valued, cared for, and supported in their journey to wellness.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
Books that have profoundly influenced my entrepreneurial and management philosophy include *Startup DPC* by Paul Thomas, which provided invaluable insights into launching and managing a direct primary care practice, and *The Personal MBA,* which helped me understand the fundamentals of business in a clear, actionable way. James Clear’s *Atomic Habits* also had a significant impact, teaching me how small, consistent actions can lead to meaningful, sustainable change—a philosophy I carry into both my business and patient care.
In addition, the works of Casey Means and Dr. Sara Gottfried have inspired me to delve deeper into integrative medicine, exploring ways to combine it with traditional approaches for a more holistic patient experience. This blend allows me to address root causes rather than symptoms, empowering patients to achieve lasting health improvements. These resources have shaped not only how I approach my practice but also how I aspire to create a meaningful and impactful business.
Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?
Beyond training and knowledge, I believe that empathy, adaptability, and a patient-centered approach are crucial for success in healthcare. Empathy allows you to truly understand what your patients are going through and meet them where they are, which is especially important in areas like weight management and hormonal health, where emotions often run high.
Adaptability is another key factor. Healthcare, like any other field, is constantly evolving, and being open to learning new methods, incorporating emerging research, and tailoring your services to meet patient needs is essential. For me, this includes exploring integrative medicine to provide more comprehensive care.
Building strong relationships is also critical. Patients need to feel heard and valued, and establishing trust is the foundation of effective care. Additionally, perseverance and resilience are vital—starting and growing a practice involves challenges and setbacks, but staying focused on your purpose can help you navigate them.
Finally, a clear vision of your “why” is incredibly helpful. For me, that’s ensuring patients who feel overlooked in traditional systems have a space where they are supported and empowered. This purpose keeps me motivated and connected to the work I do every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.crabtreehealth.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatimaiqbalmd/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091989337121
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fatima-iqbal-1a1a10188/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Crabtreehealth
