We don’t call our physicians “Doc” anymore. The nickname implies a level of comfort and familiarity with the person looking after our health. Today, our doctors see us for just a few minutes at a time, speeding between patients, juggling paperwork and insurance requirements. Many physicians want to spend more time with their patients, but today’s American healthcare system requires our doctors to work within certain, often restrictive, parameters. Wouldn’t it be great, though, if we could return to the days of Marcus Welby; the days when the doctor was a “doc,” and he knew his patients, not just what was in their charts. When patients saw their doctor when they wanted and needed to, not just when the schedule had a 15-minute opening. This is the essence of Direct Primary Care, an option for healthcare delivery that is personalized, convenient and affordable.
A Relationship for Wellness
With Direct Primary Care, or DPC, you have a true relationship with your physician. Your doctor knows you, your medical history, and the ancillary information he or she needs to help promote your wellness. Yes, your doctor is certainly available to you when you’re sick; but Direct Primary Care focuses on prevention. On making you well and keeping you well. And if you are under the weather, phone calls are returned quicker than you’re used to; appointments are made for the same-day or next day to help get you on the road to recovery as fast as possible. If certain tests are required, many of them can be done in the office, as part of your membership fee.
Talk to the Doc
While each DPC practice is slightly different, one of the general benefits of this healthcare model is access to a physician. Sometimes, you don’t need to visit the office; occasionally, you have a question or would like to connect on something that doesn’t need a face-to-face meeting. With Preservation Health Direct Primary Care, based in Southampton, Pennsylvania for example, you can reach Dr. Keith Sadel conveniently by phone or e-mail; even text message and Skype! Most traditional medicine patients cannot boast that kind of access to their physician. Dr. Sadel is available when it counts most– when you need him.
Prevent Hassle, Save Money
Because of the unique features and benefits of a Direct Primary Care practice membership, your annual fee often includes services and fees that you’d have to pay extra co-pays for, including certain lab work and other tests. And because of the quick and convenient access to your physician, you, as a healthcare team, may be able to prevent visits to the office and even the emergency room, by addressing concerns early, before they have a chance to get worse. When you need medical attention, you may be able to save the time and stress of visiting the doctor or being admitted to the hospital, as well as hundreds or thousands of dollars in co-insurance fees and co-pays with a Direct Primary Care membership. Isn’t it worth the reasonable membership fee to join a DPC practice? Isn’t your health worth it?
Learn more about Direct Primary Care:
Preservation Health, LLC
Direct Primary Care Journal
