Direct Primary Care (DPC): A Guide to This Affordable and Convenient Healthcare Model
Direct primary care (DPC) is a healthcare model in which patients pay a monthly or annual membership fee to their primary care provider (PCP). In exchange, the PCP provides unlimited access to care, including same-day or next-day appointments, phone calls, and virtual visits. DPC providers typically do not accept insurance, so patients pay out-of-pocket for their care.
DPC is gaining popularity in the United States as a more affordable and convenient alternative to traditional health insurance. A 2020 survey found that 2.4 million Americans were enrolled in DPC plans, and this number is expected to grow in the coming years.
How does DPC work?
Here is how DPC works in general:
Patients sign up for a DPC plan and pay a monthly or annual membership fee.
Patients have unlimited access to their PCP, including same-day or next-day appointments, phone calls, and virtual visits.
DPC providers typically do not accept insurance, so patients pay out-of-pocket for their care.
DPC providers may offer additional services, such as preventive care, chronic disease management, and wellness coaching.
What are benefits of DPC?
DPC has several benefits over traditional health insurance, including:
Lower cost: DPC plans typically cost less than traditional health insurance plans.
More convenient: DPC patients have unlimited access to their PCP, so they can get the care they need when they need it.
Better quality: DPC providers have more time to spend with each patient, which can lead to better care.
More personalized: DPC providers get to know their patients well, which can lead to a more personalized approach to care.
Who Is a Good Candidate for DPC?
DPC may be a good option for people who:
Are self-employed or have a high-deductible health plan.
Have chronic health conditions that require regular care.
Want to have more control over their healthcare.
Want to get the care they need when they need it.
Myths and Misconceptions about DPC
There are a few myths and misconceptions about DPC, including:
DPC is only for wealthy people.
DPC is not covered by insurance.
DPC is not safe.
DPC is not regulated.
These myths are not true. DPC is an affordable option for people of all income levels. DPC plans are typically covered by health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs). DPC is safe and effective, and it is regulated by the same laws as traditional health care.
Try Juno Direct
Juno offers a plan similar to the DPC model called Juno Direct. The plan provides patients with direct access to exceptional primary care without the cost or headaches of insurance. Juno Direct benefits includes things like free in-person preventive primary care services (including recommended labs) — whenever you need it, free same-day care appointments for urgent needs with little to no wait, access to direct-only rates for vaccines, lab tests, and on-site diagnostics and imaging, and more.