Pros & Cons of Direct Primary Care Through Optimum Direct Care
Many people are becoming increasingly frustrated with the traditional health care system, which typically requires a long wait for an appointment followed by a precious few minutes with a doctor and a never-ending hassle with an insurance company. In response to these concerns, a new health care model – direct primary care (DPC) – has emerged.
Based on a membership-only structure, a DPC practice does not accept health insurance or work with any other third-party payers. Rather, in exchange for a predictable monthly fee, a patient receives unlimited access to a doctor he or she knows and trusts.
If you’re considering your primary health care options and wondering whether DPC is right for you, you might find it helpful to consider these pros and cons:
Advantages for Patients
With DPC, you can benefit from:
- Knowing ahead of time exactly how much your primary health care will cost
- A more relaxed and streamlined health care experience
- A productive and enduring doctor-patient relationship
- Extended appointment availability, including same-day or next-day availability
- Unrushed face time with your doctor, as well as the freedom to discuss more than one health issue during a single appointment
- Telemedicine consultations via voice, video conferencing, and SMS text
- On-site tests and procedures performed at no extra cost, and off-site tests and procedures available at discounted rates
- Free generic prescription medications from the office formulary
- Access to multiple expert opinions via RubiconMD
Disadvantages for Patients
DPC completely eliminates third-party insurers from the primary health care equation, and many patients view this as a welcome change. However, it is important to keep in mind that a DPC doctor only provides primary health care services. Therefore, as a DPC member, you are still encouraged to carry health insurance to cover the costs of life-threatening emergencies, hospitalizations, and specialist care for complex illnesses and injuries.
Additionally, while the DPC model continues to grow in popularity, it can still be difficult to locate a DPC provider. Many patients find their DPC doctor through word of mouth, which is actually the best endorsement a doctor can receive.
Optimum Direct Care
At Optimum Direct Care, a DPC practice located in the Orlando, FL, area, Dr. Toni “Muzzi” Muzzonigro delivers health care that is always in the best interest of her patients. If you’re interested in becoming a member of our practice, contact us for more information.
