What is Direct Primary Care?

Direct Primary Care is movement among primary care doctors like us, who believe in providing the highest quality of care and value for their patients. We do this by removing the middleman, insurance companies. We do this by having patients directly pay us a flat, monthly fee of $95, and nearly all of their care is included.

It turns out that when we don’t bill insurance companies, cost go down, a lot. We don’t have to see as many patients in a given day, which means longer visits and more time spent on your care. We can provide the best possible care because we only work for you. Costs are fully transparent, and we can also share discounted lab and imaging prices. You don’t have to worry about co-pays, confusing bills, or hidden fees. It’s that simple.

WHAT’S COVERED IN MY MEMBERSHIP?

A lot! Please see here for a detailed list of services included with a membership

What If I need to go to the hospital or see a specialist?

If you are having a medical emergency, we recommend people to go directly to the hospital or call 911. That’s why we recommend our patients carry insurance—to cover the unexpected. We don’t have hospital privileges, but will coordinate closely with the hospitalist physician.

For non-life-threatening urgent issues, call us first. We may be able to see you right way and save you a trip.

If you need a specialist, we will refer you and keep in close touch with the physician to make sure we’re all on the same page. We have your best interest in mind, and will be your advocate. We do recommend to carry insurance for speciality care, but if you are paying out of pocket, we can help you navigate the process.

What’s the difference between DPC and concierge medicine?

Concierge practices typically bill insurance to get paid—in addition to charging a monthly or annual fee. We on the other hand, do not bill insurance, so there’s no co-pays or confusing bills. It’s what allows us to keep our cost low, which means lower prices for you in addition to outstanding service.

DO I STILL NEED INSURANCE?

Yes. We are NOT an insurance company, nor does our practice replace your health insurance. Insurance can help you cover specialist visits and emergency and hospital care. We can help assist you in finding an insurance plan that might fit well with our practice model.

Can I sign up if I have Medicare?

Yes! However, you must sign a Medicare Waiver Agreement stating that neither you or we will directly bill Medicare for your membership fee. This means that your monthly membership fee cannot be submitted to Medicare for reimbursement. Medicare will still cover any laboratory testing, imaging, medications, hospitalizations, or specialty care coordinated through our office.

Can I Apply my membership fee to my deductiblE? What about using my HSA or FSA account?

Unfortunately, no. The membership fee does not apply to a deductible and there is no clear legal wording that states HSA/FSA funds can be used to pay for DPC membership fees. Of the two, FSA funds may be applicable; contact your FSA provider to confirm if it may be possible. There has been legislation proposed regarding this issue, but no definite conclusion has been reached.

CAN I REALLY Call THE DOCTOR AFTER HOURS AND ON WEEKENDS?

Yes, however we reserve this for urgent matters only, and communication must be through phone. No texting, or emails after hours because we may not see it right away.

What if I want to cancel my membership?

No problem, just let us know and you can cancel your membership. Your membership will expire at the end of the monthly billing cycle. If you decide to re-enroll, you will be charged a re-enrollment fee.

What is your recommendations for vaccines?

Our practice recommends vaccinations; we base our vaccination schedules on the evidence-based guidelines published by The American Academy of Pediatrics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.