Why Direct Primary Care is a Great Option for Patients with Great Insurance

You may have heard of direct primary care (DPC) as a new way of delivering primary care services to patients. DPC is a business model that allows primary care physicians to offer their services directly to their patients—without an insurance company in the middle—in exchange for a monthly or annual fee. The membership fee covers a variety of primary care services, such as consultations, exams, care coordination, and some lab tests, without any additional fees at the time of service.

Some people may think that DPC is only suitable for people who have no insurance or high-deductible plans, but there are several benefits of DPC for even patients with great insurance. Here are some of them:

• More time with the doctor: DPC physicians typically have fewer patients than traditional primary care physicians, which means they can spend more time with each patient and provide more personalized and comprehensive care. This can improve the quality of care and the patient-doctor relationship, as well as prevent unnecessary referrals or hospitalizations.

• More convenience and accessibility: DPC physicians often offer flexible scheduling, same-day or next-day appointments, and extended hours. They also use telehealth services, such as phone calls, emails, or video chats, to provide care remotely when appropriate. This can save time and money for patients, as well as increase their satisfaction and adherence to treatment plans.

• More transparency and affordability: DPC physicians charge a flat fee that is paid upfront, which eliminates the hassle and uncertainty of dealing with insurance claims, copays, deductibles, or coinsurance. They also offer reduced pricing on laboratory tests, imaging, and medications, which can lower the overall healthcare costs for patients. Patients can also use their insurance for services that are not covered by the DPC membership, such as specialist visits, surgeries, or emergencies.

In conclusion, DPC is a viable option for patients who want to receive high-quality, convenient, and affordable primary care, regardless of their insurance status. DPC can complement, not replace, insurance coverage, and provide a better healthcare experience for both patients and physicians.

If you are interested in learning more about Honest Direct Primary Care or becoming a member of our practice, we invite you to schedule a Free Meet & Greet with Dr. Yang. We would love to hear from you and answer any questions you may have.