FAQ
WHAT IS DIRECT PRIMARY CARE (DPC)?
Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a method of healthcare that allows doctors to provide high quality healthcare to their patients for a low monthly fee. DPC cuts out the middleman (insurance) which allows doctors to truly be doctors. They can finally focus on their patients, and provide detailed care plans tailored to each individual patient, without worrying about insurance interfering with the doctor/patient relationship.
WHAT AGE RANGE OF PATIENTS DO YOU ACCEPT?
We typically see patients age 18 and above. Please see our membership pricing for additional pricing information.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP?
· Included in your monthly membership is access to your doctor
· Same day or next day appointments
· Telehealth
· Annual wellness appointments and sports/school physicals
· Blood draw fee (lab tests subject to additional fee)
· Routine injections (injected medication subject to additional fee)
· Urine dip test
· Ear lavage
· Discounted pricing for supplements
· Many other discounted services including lab tests, imaging, and medications. (Medications are subject to office supply only)
DOES DIRECT PRIMARY CARE HAVE HIDDEN FEES?
No. We do our absolute best to be as transparent with our fees as possible. Some services may not be included in the membership and may require an additional fee. You will know beforehand what each service will cost.
We do our best to provide low-cost options for services done outside of our clinic, however we cannot guarantee pricing for these types of services.
DO YOU CHARGE AN ENROLLMENT FEE?
Yes, A one-time charge of $99.
WHEN ARE FEES DUE?
Depending on selection, membership fees are due monthly or annually.
HOW IS DIRECT PRIMARY CARE DIFFERENT THAN TRADITIONAL FAMILY OR GERIATRIC MEDICINE?
Your medical care is delivered by one doctor in a multitude of settings for your convenience. Say you have a question about some symptoms you are having; you can call, email or see the provider the same-day or next-day. If the medical issue is more complex or specialized; we can refer you right away instead of getting the dreaded 'prior authorization'.
DPC is more personal and customized to your health. No more insurance processes or protocols to hold up the care you actually need. Since this helps us become more patient-oriented, there is more time for you and reduce unnecessary medications, sub-specialists and ER visits and hospital stays.
DPC encourages physician-patient interactions and not limiting just one-per year for preventative care and wellness visits, since visits are prepaid.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF DIRECT PRIMARY CARE?
Direct Primary Care believes your medical care is a partnership between you and your doctor.
With Direct Primary Care, you have unlimited access to your doctor. You can reach your doctor by phone, email, text, or in person. Even if you have a concern after hours, on the weekend, or vacation or holidays, it’s ok! Your doctor can assess the concern and form the best plan to meet your medical needs.
You can generally be seen within 24-48 hours (exceptions may apply).
I DON’T GO TO THE DOCTOR VERY OFTEN, IS DIRECT PRIMARY CARE FOR ME?
Yes. Direct Primary Care isn’t just for patients who need frequent appointments. Our primary goal is to be there for our patients when they need us most and to keep our patients healthy. Whether you need us a couple times a month, or a couple times a year, we are there for you. Since we are able to offer same day or next day appointments, we eliminate some, not all, trips to urgent care or the emergency room. One trip to the ER can often total more than a full year membership to Direct Primary Care.
IS DIRECT PRIMARY CARE HEALTH INSURANCE?
No. Direct Primary Care is not insurance. It is high quality healthcare directly between the doctor and the patient. We do highly recommend having some form of health insurance for emergencies and/or specialists.
CAN I SUBMIT CLAIMS TO MY INSURANCE FOR REIMBURSEMENT?
No. Direct Primary Care fees cannot be submitted to insurance for reimbursement. Our clinic does not use or bill insurance.
We cannot provide statements or billing codes for insurance submittal.
DOES EAST WEST DPC MANAGE CHRONIC PAIN?
Yes and no. We strive to take a more natural approach to managing pain vs. prescribing pain medications whenever possible. Chronic pain medications have strict prescribing guidelines that must be met. These types of medications (narcotics/opioids) are regulated and monitored very closely to meet the guidelines set by the CDC. Patients with chronic pain, who need narcotics for treatment, are encourage to seek a pain specialist who is better suited to handle these types of medications.
If you have any questions, we encourage you to speak to your doctor.
CAN I CANCEL MY MEMBERSHIP?
Yes. We ask that you agree to at least 3 months of care with East West DPC when you sign the patient agreement. However, if you feel Direct Primary Care isn’t for you after that period of time, you may cancel your membership.
If you cancel your membership then choose to re-enroll, a $250 re-enrollment fee will apply.