Is Direct Primary Care Right for You?
Today, more and more savvy people are choosing to take advantage of direct primary care (DPC) – an innovative alternative to the traditional, fee-for-service healthcare model. Wondering if it’s right for you? Consider that DPC takes primary healthcare back to basics – back to a time when priorities were in the right order, when doctor-patient relationships were strong and personal, and when doctors could practice medicine without any interference from insurance companies. This is precisely what most doctors envisioned when they first got into the business. But, unfortunately for both doctors and their patients, that vision often gets lost in the shuffle when burdensome insurer requirements get in the way.
How DPC Differs From Traditional Healthcare
Much like traditional practices, DPC practices offer comprehensive primary healthcare services – but, unlike traditional practices, many DPC practices do not accept insurance. Because the payment process takes place directly between the doctor and patient, the doctor is able to pass along savings to the patient in the form of free generic prescriptions from the office formulary, in-house lab testing at no additional cost, and more. In lieu of paying a separate fee for each service, the patient pays one set monthly membership fee.* Most significantly, the DPC model fosters the development of a strong doctor-patient relationship built on trust and transparency, which helps the patient achieve optimum health and wellness, often for a lifetime.
More Doctor Availability
DPC physicians are able to spend more time with fewer patients, which ultimately leads to better care. They’re also available to their patients during extended hours and in more convenient ways. For instance, in addition to same-day and next-day appointments, many DPC physicians are accessible to their patients 24/7 via voice, videoconferencing, and SMS text. Through the use of the latest technologies, DPC physicians are able to strengthen their relationships with their patients while keeping sensitive information safe and secure.
In sum, DPC always puts patients first. This is especially significant in the healthcare industry, which is not known for its outstanding customer service. If all of this sounds good to you, the team at Optimum Direct Care would like to welcome you to our DPC practice in Orlando, FL. Meet with our board-certified family practice physicians, and find out how we can make a true difference in your health and wellness.
*DPC patients are encouraged to purchase a relatively low-cost, wraparound insurance plan to cover healthcare services that extend beyond primary care, such as hospitalizations and specialist care for complex illnesses and injuries.