Question 1

What is direct primary care (DPC)?

Accepted Answer

Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a healthcare model that allows patients to pay a simple monthly membership fee directly to their physician in exchange for comprehensive primary care services. By removing insurance from the physician-patient relationship, DPC physicians can spend more time with patients, offer enhanced access, and focus on personalized, high-quality care.

Question 2

What if I only need to see a physician once or twice a year?

Accepted Answer

Many patients join DPC for the convenience, accessibility, and ongoing relationship with their physician—not just for office visits. Your membership provides direct access to your doctor for questions, preventive care, chronic disease management, care coordination, and acute concerns throughout the year. Even if you rarely need appointments, many patients find value in having a trusted physician readily available when they need care. If a single appointment is desired, there is an option to pay a one-time $300 fee for an hour-long visit. There are additional fees for subsequent communication of results, additional testing, and consultation of specialists.

Question 3

Do you bill insurance?

Accepted Answer

No. We do not bill insurance for services covered under your membership. This allows us to focus on patient care rather than insurance paperwork and administrative requirements. If you receive services outside of our practice, such as specialist care, hospital services, imaging, or procedures, those providers may bill your insurance directly.

Question 4

Do I need insurance?

Accepted Answer

While insurance is not required to join our practice, we strongly recommend that patients maintain health insurance or another form of coverage for unexpected medical expenses such as hospitalizations, surgeries, emergency care, specialist treatment, or expensive medications. DPC is designed to complement—not replace—major medical coverage.

Question 5

How is DPC different than concierge medicine?

Accepted Answer

Both DPC and concierge practices offer enhanced access and personalized care, but there are important differences. Concierge practices often bill insurance in addition to charging a membership fee. In contrast, DPC practices generally do not bill insurance for primary care services. This allows for simpler pricing, fewer administrative barriers, and a stronger focus on the physician-patient relationship.

Question 6

How am I charged for labs and imaging?

Accepted Answer

Laboratory tests and imaging studies are typically not included in your membership fee. We work with local providers to help patients access these services at discounted, transparent cash prices whenever possible.

Question 7

Will there be any surprise fees in addition to my monthly membership?

Accepted Answer

No. We believe healthcare costs should be transparent and predictable. Your monthly membership covers the primary care services included in your membership agreement. If additional services are required, such as joint injections, skin biopsies, or other minor procedures, fees will be discussed beforehand in detail.

Question 8

How often do I pay my membership fee?

Accepted Answer

Membership fees may be billed monthly or annually depending on patient preference. This fee includes all communication and visits that occur during that time period.

Question 9

How do I schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

We believe every patient-provider relationship is important to creating a valuable health plan for each patient. Every patient is encouraged to start with a free 15 minute meet-and-greet visit.

Question 10

Can I use my Health Savings Account (HSA) to pay for membership?

Accepted Answer

Current federal regulations regarding HSA eligibility and DPC memberships can be complex and may change over time. In some situations, patients may be able to use HSA funds for DPC membership fees, while in others they may not. We recommend consulting your tax advisor or benefits administrator regarding your specific situation. We are happy to provide documentation of your membership fees if needed.

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