Direct Primary Care is a model which operates outside of the typical insurance system. Rather than contracting with insurance, paying co-pays, and asking for insurance authorizations, Direct Primary Care works on a direct connection between the patient and the practice. Patients agree to pay a monthly membership fee, and in return receive all their primary care services under one roof without additional costs for visits during the year. This means that folks who do not have insurance can receive care for much less than they would pay for Emergency Department or repeated urgent care visit, and have access to discounted lab tests and in-office tests. Folks who do have insurance but who value this model of care and the individualized attention we can offer can pay the monthly fee, and tests, medicines and other services can be covered by medical insurance.
Direct Primary Care allows members to be able to predict their healthcare costs and to partner with us to keep out-of-pocket costs low. It also allows for increased privacy for DPC patients, since there is no outside billing needed.
There may be small costs for in-office testing (strep test, urine testing, etc.) and for medications dispensed at the office. Lab tests can be billed to patients' insurance, if that is what folks prefer, or will be charged at LabCorp's cash pay rates. These lab costs would be paid at the time of the lab collection, and are usually much, much, much less than folks would be charged through their insurance.
Since Direct Primary Care practices are supported by their members, we do not depend on co-pays with each visit to keep the doors open. This means that we can offer much better access than traditional practices. We can spend more time with each visit--30 or even 60 minute visits are standard. We will also keep slots available every day for same-day and urgent care visits so that you will not need to wait for care or spend extra money. We can also meet you where you need us: in person, over video virtual visits, over the telephone, or even by text or secure portal messages. This model gives you the flexibility you may need to take good care of yourself!
Direct Primary Care is not health insurance, and it will not cover any subspecialty care, emergency care, surgeries or hospitalizations. We encourage all patients to consider catastrophic insurance coverage for these unexpected (and expensive!) medical costs.
