Frequently Asked Questions:

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Direct Primary Care is a healthcare model focused on providing patients with comprehensive, accessible, and personalized primary care services for a flat monthly fee, without the complexities of insurance billing.

Unlike traditional health insurance models, DPC does not bill insurance for visits or services. Instead, patients pay a monthly membership fee that covers the cost of primary care services, allowing for more direct, personal attention from their provider.

The membership fee typically covers all or most primary care services including consultations, office visits, basic procedures, and sometimes in-house lab tests. It often also includes extended visits, virtual care options, and more direct access to your physician.

Yes, while DPC covers primary care services within the clinic, patients can still use their health insurance for medications, laboratory tests, specialist visits, and services not provided directly by the DPC clinic.

No, DPC is not a replacement for health insurance. It is recommended to have at least a high-deductible plan or a health-sharing plan to cover services outside of primary care, such as hospitalizations, surgeries, and specialist care.

Yes, individuals with Medicare or Medicaid can join a DPC clinic, but it's important to understand that DPC fees are separate from and not covered by Medicare or Medicaid. Services outside the DPC clinic would still be billed to Medicare or Medicaid as usual.

Benefits include more time with your doctor, no wait times, same-day appointments, a focus on preventive care, transparent pricing, and reduced out-of-pocket costs for primary care services.

Yes, for many people, DPC can reduce overall healthcare costs. By covering all primary care needs for a flat fee, members often save on out-of-pocket expenses and avoid unnecessary visits to specialists or urgent care.

Yes, most DPC clinics allow you to cancel your membership with notice (e.g., 30 days). Policies may vary, so it's important to review the membership agreement.

DPC clinics often provide direct access to your physician after hours for urgent needs via phone or text. However, true emergencies should be directed to emergency services or hospital care.

DPC clinics often negotiate lower prices for medications, which they can dispense directly, resulting in significant savings for patients. However, the cost of medications is typically separate from the membership fee.

DPC practices often provide common in-house laboratory tests as part of the membership. For more specialized tests, they may use external labs and pass on discounted rates to their members.

Yes, most DPC practices are equipped to perform a variety of minor procedures such as skin biopsies, joint injections, and suturing of minor lacerations as part of the membership benefits.

While DPC doesn't cover the cost of specialist visits, your DPC doctor can help coordinate referrals and sometimes negotiate cash prices for specialist services for uninsured patients or those looking for cost-effective options.

Many DPC practices offer virtual consultations to their members, allowing you to receive advice and care from your physician no matter where you are. For issues requiring in-person care, your DPC doctor can advise you on the best course of action.

DPC practices typically have smaller patient panels than traditional practices, often ranging from 300 to 600 patients per doctor. This allows for more personalized care and easier access to your physician.

Appointments in a DPC practice are usually longer than traditional primary care visits, ranging from 30 to 60 minutes or more, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care without feeling rushed.

Yes, many DPC practices offer family membership plans, making it an affordable and convenient option for comprehensive family healthcare.

DPC may be a good fit if you value having a personal relationship with your doctor, seek transparent healthcare costs, and prefer a focus on preventive care and wellness. It's especially beneficial for individuals frustrated with the traditional healthcare system's complexities and long wait times.

Joining a DPC clinic typically involves signing up through the clinic's website or office, paying the initial membership fee, and completing any required health history documentation.