Is DPC for Me?
Direct Primary Care is a relatively new concept in healthcare delivery. Everyone can benefit from a DPC practice. Some advantages may be more beneficial to people in different life stages or circumstances. Some ideas are listed below.
Children benefit from same-or-next-day appointments as illness can come on suddenly. With longer appointments, parents will not feel rushed when discussing developmental or behavioral concerns. There are no co-pays when follow up visits are needed. Virtual visits can ease schedule difficulties in busy families.
Busy adolescents and young adults can benefit from virtual visits and text messaging the doctor. Unrushed appointments provide a comfortable environment to discuss challenging topics Being able to remain connected to your doctor while away at college is a great benefit (and can ease parental worry!). Having a doctor who can follow the changes from home, to school, to independence may address concerns before there is a problem.
Adults can take advantage of flexible scheduling (in-person, virtual, e-mail and texting) to work with demanding schedules. With extended appointment times, we can focus on health habits and upcoming life stages to lessen or prevent health issues.
Older adults will enjoy extended appointments. Follow up appointments will be readily available to address new concerns or adjust existing therapies.
Time to discuss issues more deeply can reduce the need for specialist appointments, emergency care and hospitalizations.
Everyone can take advantage of the cost savings of discounted lab tests, medications and procedures.
Enhanced and secure communication can make the complex a little more simple and efficient.
A more comprehensive relationship with your doctor can identify and address health issues more quickly, lessening the burden of illness and disease.
A healthcare team focused on your concerns, symptoms, diagnosis and approach to treatment will deliver better care when they are not also concerned with the codes and complexities associated with the burdensome insurance industry.
This means better care and a better experience on both sides of the doctor-patient relationship.