“What’s DPC?”
Direct Primary Care, or DPC, is a model of healthcare that puts patients first by getting rid of the red tape by which most other traditional practices are restricted.
“What is Direct Health Care?”
Direct Health Care is the Tri-Cities first Comprehensive Direct Care practice. We offer a pattern of family healthcare that is immediate, thorough, specific, easily affordable, and very, very personal.
“Is concierge medicine the same as Direct Primary Care?”
The terms are often used interchangeably and essentially refer to the same principles. Direct Primary Care is a healthcare model focused on putting the patient first. That means treating them when they need it, never rushing patients through appointments, and being proactive with healthcare treatment plans. Our relationship with you is just as the name suggests – Direct. Direct Primary Care clinics don’t accept insurance, rather they choose to work directly with the patient, providing wholesale labs, on site X-Ray, comprehensive treatment, and other costs savings along the way.
“What sets Direct Health Care apart from other practices?”
We have cut the red tape of bureaucracy. The restrictions that typically leave physicians in a traditional healthcare setting buried in nonsense paperwork are lifted through Direct Care, allowing us to spend our time where it really counts: with patients. In refusing to recognize any interference with the sanctity of our relationship, we have returned family practice medicine to its root values of clinical excellence for and compassionate knowledge of every patient. In every aspect of family healthcare, and custom healthcare, we promise accessibility, convenience, and affordability.
“Will I benefit from Direct Health Care if I don’t require frequent medical attention?”
Of course. We might argue that everyone benefits from a service tailored directly to them. That’s why we offer truly custom healthcare. Our practice is devoted to the maintenance of your good health, to the enhancements of your daily experience that only physical well-being can bring. We’re here for your reactive needs. But proactive healthcare is important, and we’re here for that, too.
At Direct Health Care, we have the gift of time. Even better? We get to give the gift of time. Large amounts of precious, irretrievable time given to you as you wish. Every visit, for whatever reason, will be easygoing in its absolute thoroughness, relaxed in answering your questions and addressing the need of the moment. Then, as the months and years go by, we’ll build a comprehensive, intimate knowledge of your health, invaluable understanding available in no other regimen of care.
"Does Direct Health Care accept health insurance?”
No. Happily, no. Perhaps the most critical distinction in our model of care centers on a direct, personal relationship between us. That directness carries over to our business model as well. While the tender mercies of an insurance company might apply to the fixing of a damaged fender on your automobile, we see no reason for any insurer to have a voice about either the quality or the cost of your family’s care.
We forgo insurance payments in order to save our patients from the arbitrary, intrusive decisions that inevitably follow with third-party payors. Furthermore, this direct fee-for-services arrangement frees us from the typical contractual agreements that prevent physicians from offering wholesale prices on laboratory tests, imaging, and medications.
“As a patient of Direct Health Care, will I still need health insurance?”
Yes. We recommend our patients continue a major medical plan with a high deductible and health savings account to ensure financial help should hospitalization or referral to a specialist be necessary. We’re happy to refer you to insurance representatives who can help customize an insurance plan to your specific needs.
“Can you help me find affordable insurance for my family or my business?”
Absolutely. We’re fortunate to work with the industry leaders in health insurance who build custom plans that remove much of the waste and inefficiency from a typical, bloated policy. We’ve been able to save families nearly $1,000/month and many businesses up to 50% while providing a higher level of care. If you’re interested in speaking with a health insurance expert, please contact us.
“If I have Medicare, can I still join Direct Health Care?”
Yes. You need only sign a one-time waiver declaring that neither of us will directly bill Medicare for our services. Medicare will still cover any laboratory testing, imaging, medications, or hospitalizations prescribed by our offices.
“Is my membership to Direct Health Care tax deductible?”
Unfortunately, no for individuals. Your retainer is not yet defined as a “medical expense” in most states and as such is not deductible. Please discuss with your tax consultant to clarify tax consequences in your particular circumstances. For Employers, this is a deductible medical expense, however, discuss your particular circumstances to clarify your tax obligations.
“What happens if I need to go to the hospital or see a specialist?”
In providing superb care with unprecedented sorts of access, we seek to prevent or reduce hospitalizations and specialty referrals. In instances where those types of care are required, we will certainly continue to work with your hospitalist during your hospital stay as well as work closely with any specialist. In some cases, depending on the level of care and the sorts of expertise required, we may rely on those specialized caregivers to manage your treatment.
“Can children become members of Direct Health Care?”
Yes. We are happy to accept the children (birth to 20 years of age) of our enrolled clients. At this time, we are not able to provide routine vaccinations for young children but we will happily work with you to arrange these.
“Can I contact you after hours? And how?”
By all means, YES! Because illness and injury do not respect regular office hours, you may call any day, at any hour. We invite you to arrange for home visits, schedules permitting. If you prefer, you may also use our secure patient portal to access your medical record and then e-mail your physician. It’s how we do custom healthcare.
“What if I need medical attention while I’m away from home?”
Naturally we provide such care – yet another freedom we enjoy together as a result of Direct Health Care’s independence from the restrictions of third-party payment. Because we know you well, we can streamline your care when you’re sick away from home. Many illnesses can be diagnosed and treated with a simple conversation by phone, email, text or webcam. We’ll locate the nearest pharmacy and order the medications most appropriate for your circumstances.
“How will I know if Direct Health Care is right for me?”
Come get to know us! Schedule a free, unconditional visit to discuss your healthcare needs. It’s the only reasonable way to begin what we trust will be a long, productive, healthy relationship. Get in touch here!
“Are my medical records ever shared with insurance carriers or pharmaceutical companies?”
We maintain scrupulous standards of privacy. We are never obligated to provide any third party with a copy of your records unless you specifically ask that we do so.
