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.
![](https://optimumdirectcare.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/bigstock-Close-up-Shot-Of-Sick-Young-Fa-260023372.jpg)
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.