Unlocking Savings with Direct Primary Care
STOP! The amount of dollars spent on healthcare expenses is astronomical. As of December 2023, 41% of U.S. adults had healthcare debt. This is not acceptable. See the plan below. Direct Primary Care physicians can help. Orange MD can help. Every month Direct Primary Care physicians are fighting the Goliath healthcare system to lower cost and save patients money. See how I saved patients money this past week in the two simple examples below.
Migraine Medication - Topiramate: save a patient over $80 by dedicating time to shop around for the most cost-effective pharmacy options for a migraine medication. By comparing prices and sourcing a cheaper mail-in pharmacy (Cost-Plus Drug Company) the patient was able to secure a 90-day supply of 50mg Topiramate for just $7.70, as opposed to the $93.22 they would have paid with a GoodRx coupon at a local pharmacy. This substantial saving not only eases the financial burden on the patient but also exemplifies the value of personalized care in healthcare. (see images uploaded below)
Hypothyroidism - Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Lab Test (TSH): $3 in DPC clinic vs $50-$150 in a traditional clinic. Often patient’s have no idea what their cost will be. This test is often needed every 3-6 months. Sometimes more frequent. Sometime a T3 or T4 are also needed to accompany the TSH as well. This exemplifies how DPC clinics can offer a more affordable path for routine monitoring of all types of conditions diabetes, hypertension, hypothyroidism, etc. Providing both economic benefits and streamlined care for patients managing chronic conditions. (see images from Turquoise.com to check local lab prices)
Unpacking Direct Primary Care
Direct Primary Care sidesteps traditional insurance systems, allowing patients to work directly with their primary care providers. Patient’s pay a flat-monthly fee that covers a wide array of primary care services, fostering a model where physicians can focus on patient care rather than insurance protocols. The DPC model encourages a closer patient-doctor relationship, with enhanced accessibility and personalized care. Patients enjoy unlimited office visits, extended consultations, and often, 24/7 access to their healthcare provider, without the fear of additional charges
Cost Transparency
One of the hallmark benefits of DPC is its transparent pricing structure. Patients are aware of their healthcare costs upfront, eliminating unexpected medical bills and the often opaque pricing associated with traditional healthcare. This transparency not only aids in financial planning but also demystifies the cost of care, empowering patients to make informed healthcare decisions without the anxiety of hidden fees.
Reduced Overall Healthcare Costs
DPC can lead to substantial savings for patients. By focusing on preventive care, DPC practitioners aim to catch health issues early, potentially reducing the need for expensive specialist visits, urgent care, or hospitalizations. Additionally, many DPC practices offer discounted prices on lab tests and medications, further cutting down healthcare expenses.
Moreover, the DPC model's emphasis on personalized care and longer consultation times allows physicians to address multiple health concerns in a single visit, reducing the frequency of doctor's visits and associated costs over time. This comprehensive approach not only enhances health outcomes but also translates into tangible financial savings for patients.
Conclusion
Direct Primary Care presents a compelling alternative to traditional healthcare, particularly in its ability to reduce costs for patients. By fostering preventive care, offering transparent pricing, and eliminating the middleman, DPC empowers patients to take control of their health and finances. As healthcare continues to evolve, Direct Primary Care stands out as a model worth considering for those seeking quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare solutions.
-Benjamin Larsen, MD
Orange MD