Question 1

What is Direct Primary Care (DPC)?

Accepted Answer

Direct Primary Care is a membership-based healthcare model where patients pay a monthly or annual fee directly to their doctor instead of using insurance for routine services. This model prioritizes the patient-doctor relationship over insurance company requirements, allowing for more personalized and accessible care.

Question 2

How is DPC different from a traditional primary care practice?

Accepted Answer

Traditional practices bill insurance for every visit and service. In DPC, we do not bill insurance; your membership fee covers most primary care needs. By maintaining a smaller patient panel, we offer deeper connections and significantly more time with each patient.

Question 3

What does the membership fee usually include?

Accepted Answer

Unlimited office visitsSame-day or next-day appointmentsLonger visit timesBasic in-office proceduresChronic disease managementEmail, phone, or text accessPreventive care and personalized health maintenance planningComprehensive annual labs (including cholesterol, blood counts, thyroid, chemistry panel, vitamin D, and A1c)

Question 4

Does DPC replace health insurance?

Accepted Answer

No. DPC is not a substitute for health insurance. While it covers all primary care, you will still need insurance for:HospitalizationSpecialist careEmergency careSurgeryMajor medical events

Question 5

Who is Direct Primary Care good for?

Accepted Answer

It is a perfect fit for people who want:More personal attention and stronger doctor-patient relationshipEasy access to a doctorIndividual health counseling and planningTransparent pricingBetter care coordinationWholesale costs for members without insuranceNo limitations on the type or number of visits you need

Question 6

How will it save me money?

Accepted Answer

DPC can be more cost-effective, especially for those who visit their doctor frequently. There are no co-pays for office visits, and many procedures—such as EKGs and breathing treatments—are included at no extra charge. Members also gain access to significant discounts on prescriptions, lab testing, and imaging.

Question 7

What kinds of services are not usually included?

Accepted Answer

Common exclusions may include:Hospital servicesSpecialist visitsImaging like CT/MRIComplex lab workExpensive specialty medicationsEmergency care

Question 8

What is the cost of membership?

Accepted Answer

Adults:Ages 18–29: $100 Monthly or $1,140 AnnualAges 30–44: $150 Monthly or $1,710 AnnualAges 45–60: $185 Monthly or $2,109 AnnualAges 61+: $210 Monthly or $2,394 AnnualKids:Ages 10–17: $60 Monthly or $684 AnnualFamily Plan: $420 Monthly (Includes 2 adults under 60 and 2 children ages 10–17)*For other configurations, please contact us for a custom quote.

Question 9

Do you accept HSA or health savings accounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we accept HSA payments.

Question 10

How do appointments work in DPC?

Accepted Answer

Appointments are easier to schedule and last longer than in traditional settings. Many DPC practices offer:Same-day or next-day visitsVirtual visitsDirect communication with the doctor

Question 11

Is DPC the same as concierge medicine?

Accepted Answer

Not exactly. Both models offer more personalized care, but concierge medicine often has higher fees and may still bill insurance. DPC is usually more affordable and simpler in structure.

Question 12

May I cancel my membership at any time? Penalty for Cancellation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you may cancel your membership at any time with a 30-day written notice, as outlined in your membership agreement.

Question 13

May I rejoin after cancelling my membership?

Accepted Answer

Rejoining after cancellation is subject to approval and current practice availability.

Question 14

Do I need to have insurance?

Accepted Answer

No, patients can be members even if they don’t have insurance.  It is strongly recommended that you have insurance to cover the costs of outside services, specialist visits, hospitalizations, surgeries, etc.  Healthshare plans work really well with DPC practices to keep overall healthcare costs down and patients healthier.

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