About Direct Care

• What is Direct Primary Care?

  Direct primary care (DPC) is a growing model of healthcare that puts patients first. DPC practices do not bill or file insurance claims; instead, the patient pays directly for the services provided. This model of care provides freedom for both the physician and the patient, allowing us to provide personalized, patient-centered medicine. This model also allows physicians to have substantially fewer patients, so we can better individualize your care and provide comprehensive, reliable access to care.
• What is Internal Medicine?

  Internal Medicine is the medical specialty that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases. We provide preventative care, treat acute illnesses, and help manage chronic diseases. With our experience and training we are equipped to handle a broad and comprehensive spectrum of illnesses. We will also refer you to specialists and work closely with them to provide comprehensive care when needed.
• Do I still need insurance?

  Although we do not accept insurance, we still believe insurance is important to help cover hospitalizations and severe illnesses. Many patients in direct primary care practices have high-deductible, catastrophic insurance plans. We think our model is best compared to car insurance. We use our car insurance for major accidents and large expenses, not for routine oil changes and maintenance services. It is important to note, though, that the direct primary care model is not insurance and does not meet the criteria for insurance as set forth in the Affordable Care Act.
• What if I need labs, imaging, or specialist care?

  We offer discounted labs and imaging, but we are also able to bill your insurance for these services, if desired. We will work with your insurance to obtain necessary imaging (x-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI) and to refer you to the specialists needed to assist in your care.
• Can you pay the monthly or annual fee from a Health Savings Account (HSA)?

  The State of Arkansas recognizes Direct Primary Care as an eligible medical expense, but the U.S. Treasury and IRS have not officially weighed in. A presidential executive order signed on June 24th 2019 specifically calls on the Treasury to regulate DPC as an eligible medical expense by the end of September 2019. We advise patients with an HSA account to contact their Health Plan administrator (usually Human Resource office) and/or Accountant to ask if it’s okay to use their HSA funds to pay our annual or monthly fee.
• Will we really be able to contact our physician directly?

  Yes! We will readily be available by phone, email or text. We will work to accommodate your schedule. You will always be able to reach a doctor in case of emergency, both after hours and on the weekend. We will also work to help you avoid urgent care or the emergency room if we can. If emergency care cannot be avoided, we will help you navigate your emergency and determine if the emergency room is the best place for you. All in all, direct care means that we are here for you, no matter what the health-related circumstance.
• Have another question for us?

  Please email us with other questions you may have about Direct Primary Care!