Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a medical practice model in whuch the doctor contractd directly with patients, rather than with insurance companies.

For almost all of America’s history, Americans paid their provider directly for care. It was only in the late 20th century that health insurance outpaced out-of-pocket pay as the primary revenue source for medical practices. But since the turn of the 21st century, DPC has made a resurgence.  In 2005, there were fewer than 150 physicians practicing in direct primary care, concierge, and other direct care models.  This number grew 5x in the next five years, to 756 in 2010, and then even more rapidly to an estimated 6,500 direct care physicians across the country by the end of 2015.

The complexities of contracting with insurers have placed more demands on patients and physicians in recent years, leading more to choose direct care. This alternative payment model has helped strengthen the relationship between patients and physicians in many communities.  As your doctor, I work for you and not for an insurance company; I do not bill insurance companies and do not accept insurance payments.

For you, the patient, Direct Care means a greater degree of access to, and more time with your doctor. This gives you improved communication and more regular, engaged care, usually leading to fewer unnecessary tests, less frequent hospital visits, and lower total cost of care.  In short, I get to know you and your needs better.  In most instances, we can provide same-day or next-day appointments.

Direct Care is a departure from the fee-for-service model. Instead of receiving payment for each service rendered, the physician receives a per-patient amount per month, quarter, or year.  This subscription fee, as noted in our price list covers almost all primary care services provided in our practice.

Services included in membership: 

• Annual physical and wellness examination, including a review of dietary and lifestyle patterns, review of preventive healthcare recommendations based on current medical research, and a plan designed to help you achieve the healthiest state possible
• UNLIMITED office visits at no additional charge beyond the monthly fee.  It doesn’t matter if you’re scheduling a visit for chronic disease management (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, chronic lung disease, heart disease, obesity, high cholesterol), seeking treatment for an acute illness or injury, undergoing a minor surgical procedure, Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment.  (Some services require supplies which may require an additional charge).
• Discounts on many medications .
• Discounts on lab testing (e.g., cholesterol panels, thyroid testing, metabolic panels).  For your convenience, lab tests can be drawn in our office and results are typically communicated to you within 48-72 hours either by phone call, email or through secure texting.
• Access to your physician or nurse practitioner…the same person, at every visit.
• Access to your physician after hours and on weekends .