Frequently Asked Questions
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Direct Primary Care is a healthcare model that provides patients with comprehensive primary care services for a monthly fee. This fee covers all routine services, such as check-ups, and preventive care.
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In traditional healthcare models, patients pay per visit or per service. In contrast, DPC offers a subscription-based model where patients pay a flat monthly fee for unlimited access to their primary care provider. DPC providers also typically have a smaller patient panel, which allows for more personalized care and longer appointment times.
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DPC typically includes a range of services, such as routine check-ups, preventive care, chronic disease management, urgent care, and basic lab tests. Some DPC practices may also offer additional services like telemedicine, mental health services, and minor procedures.
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DPC is not typically covered by insurance, as patients pay a flat fee for services directly to their primary care provider. However, some patients may choose to use their insurance for services not covered under DPC, such as specialist care or hospital visits.
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The cost of DPC varies by practice and location, but typically ranges from $50-$200 per month for adults, with lower fees for children. Phase Care charges $100 per month with discounts for families or annual payment plans.
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While DPC can provide comprehensive primary care services, it is not a substitute for health insurance. DPC providers typically do not cover specialty care, hospitalizations, or other costly medical services, which are best covered by insurance. However, having DPC can help reduce the overall cost of healthcare by providing more affordable and accessible primary care services.
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Many DPC providers offer telemedicine services, which can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. Patients can also often connect with their provider via email or phone for quick medical advice or prescription refills while traveling.
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Unlike traditional healthcare models where providers see a high volume of patients per day, DPC providers typically have smaller patient panels. This allows for longer appointment times and more personalized care. On average, a DPC provider may see 6-8 patients per day. This also allows the doctor to provide same-day or next day appointments!
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DPC providers focus on providing primary care services, so if you need to see a specialist or require hospitalization, your DPC provider will coordinate with other healthcare providers to ensure you receive the appropriate care. Your DPC provider may also be able to provide recommendations for specialists and coordinate referrals if needed.
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Yes, DPC providers typically offer vaccinations and immunizations as part of their comprehensive primary care services. This may include routine vaccines, flu shots, and travel vaccines.
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Patients pay for DPC services directly to their primary care provider. This can be done through a monthly subscription fee or an annual fee, depending on the provider's policies. Some DPC providers may also accept insurance for additional services not covered under the subscription fee. Phase Care charges a $100 monthly fee that can be paid monthly, quarterly, or annually and also currently accepts Medicare insurance.
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DPC providers typically have a smaller patient panel, which allows for more personalized care and longer appointment times. As a result, appointment availability is generally more flexible than traditional healthcare models. Many DPC providers offer same-day or next-day appointments and offer telemedicine visits for added convenience.
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Many DPC providers offer after-hours care or 24/7 access to their providers via phone or email for urgent medical needs. This can help avoid costly emergency room visits for non-emergent issues. After becoming a member at Phase Care you will receive a contact number for direct communication with your doctor.
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Yes, patients can still use their insurance for prescriptions and labs not covered under the DPC subscription fee. Your DPC provider may be able to provide recommendations for low-cost prescription options or labs that are covered by your insurance.
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While both Direct Primary Care and concierge medicine offer personalized, high-quality care, concierge medicine usually involves an annual fee that is much higher than a DPC subscription fee. In addition, DPC providers typically do not bill insurance or charge copays, whereas concierge medicine providers often do.
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Yes, DPC providers are equipped to provide care for patients with chronic illnesses or complex medical conditions. DPC providers offer comprehensive primary care services, including care coordination with specialists, medication management, and chronic disease management.
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Direct Primary Care is a good fit for anyone looking for more personalized, comprehensive primary care services. It is especially beneficial for those who do not have insurance or have high-deductible insurance plans. It is also a good fit for those who value early appointment dates, longer appointment times, and more personalized care. ->Read more here
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Yes, DPC providers focus on preventive care services to help patients maintain their overall health and well-being. This may include routine screenings, health assessments, and wellness coaching.
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Direct Primary Care can benefit employers and their employees by providing a more affordable, accessible, and comprehensive primary care option. By offering DPC as an employee benefit, employers can help reduce healthcare costs, improve employee health outcomes, and increase employee satisfaction and retention.
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Phase Care does not provide pediatric services. However, older children who have achieved adult size (usually age 16+) can be seen, as treatment does not significantly differ from that of adults at that point.
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Yes, many DPC providers offer telemedicine visits, which allows patients to connect with their provider from anywhere with an internet connection. This can be especially beneficial for those who travel frequently or who move out of the area.
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Direct Primary Care is focused on providing comprehensive primary care services, including preventive care and chronic disease management, while urgent care and emergency care are designed to address immediate medical needs.
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DPC providers typically offer longer appointment times, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour or more, to allow for more personalized care and thorough consultations.
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Yes, many DPC providers offer mental health services, including counseling and medication management for common mental health conditions.
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Yes, in many cases, DPC subscription fees can be paid for using funds from an HSA or FSA. Phase Care accepts HSA/FSA payments.
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The frequency of visits with your DPC provider will depend on your individual healthcare needs, but most patients see their DPC provider a few times a year for routine care and check-ins.
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DPC providers can write prescriptions and often offer discounted prices on medications through partnerships with pharmacies. As Phase Care grows, we intend on offering many basic medications at cost to patients.
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Yes, DPC providers often work closely with specialists and other healthcare providers to coordinate care and ensure that patients receive the most comprehensive care possible.
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What happens if I need to see a specialist or receive care outside of my DPC provider's office?
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Many DPC providers offer after-hours care and telemedicine visits to ensure that patients have access to care when they need it.
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DPC providers are required to comply with HIPAA regulations and take measures to ensure the privacy and security of patients' personal health information.
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Yes, many DPC providers offer flexible subscription options and allow patients to cancel at any time. However, if the patient intends to resuscribe then their will be an associated fee.
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DPC providers often partner with labs and diagnostic testing centers to offer discounted prices on tests and can also order and interpret test results. Phase Care has partnered with Valley Diagnostics, the only local medical lab in the Fresno Area.
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Yes, DPC providers can diagnose and treat acute illnesses and injuries, such as colds, flu, and minor injuries.
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DPC providers do not bill insurance or charge copays, but instead charge a simple monthly fee for comprehensive primary care services. Phase Care will accept Medicare patients for the coming year and patients will be notified prior to a switch over to monthly subscription.