Direct Primary Care - DPC
What is Direct Primary Care?
Direct Primary Care (DPC) is an innovative healthcare model that prioritizes you—the patient—above all else. Unlike conventional insurance-based care systems, DPC operates on a straightforward membership basis. With a monthly fee, you get direct and convenient access to your physician along with a comprehensive range of essential primary care services that address 90% of situations that would send you to a doctor. This allows for longer, more meaningful appointments, reduced wait times, and a stronger emphasis on your holistic health and well-being.
Your Membership at Aurora Primary Care includes:
- Direct access to your doctor
- Same- or next-day appointments
- Longer visits for thorough, unhurried discussions
- Annual physicals and multiple visits for no additional cost
- Telehealth services and access to text and email communication
- Unrestricted access to your medical information
See below how Direct Primary Care is different from the Traditional Primary Care model.
Key Benefits of Direct Primary Care
Personalized Care
- Stronger doctor-patient relationship
- Tailored treatment plans
- Higher patient satisfaction
More Access &
Convenience
- Same-day or next-day appointments
- Telemedicine options
- Longer appointment times
Routine Care
Cost Savings
- Predictable monthly fee
- Discounted services (labs, imaging)
- Reduced out-of-pocket costs
Focus on Prevention
- Proactive wellness plans
- Early detection and intervention
Better Health Outcomes
- Better chronic health condition management
- Long-term patient-provider continuity
Optimized Healthcare
- Reduction in ER visits and hospitalizations
- Lower overall healthcare costs
(1) Some DPC practices dispense common medications at wholesale prices, potentially saving patients up to 95% on prescription costs. (2) Patients with diabetes show greater blood sugar control (some claim 12% lower) under DPC due to individualized and patient centered care practices. (3) Families using DPC have seen a 40% reduction in ER visits and 20% fewer hospitalizations compared to traditional healthcare systems. (4) Combining a DPC plan with a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) can save patients an average of 20% to 30% compared to traditional insurance.
Direct vs. Traditional Primary Care
Most patients benefit from direct primary care because they have a closer relationship with their doctor. DPC doctors have fewer patients and no insurance companies controlling your care. This means you stay with the same doctor even if you change jobs and have more control over your healthcare and no surprises with billing.
💙 Why Choose Direct Primary Care?
| What Matters | Direct Primary Care | Traditional Care |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Pricing | Flat monthly fee for comprehensive primary care | Co-pays, deductibles, hidden costs |
| See Your Doctor | You pick your doctor, no insurance network limits. | You choose from doctors in your insurance network (or pay more). |
| Easy Appointments | Same-day or next-day availability | Long wait times (average 21 days) |
| Time with Doctor | 30-60 minute visits | Often just 10-15 minutes |
| Direct Communication | Text, call, or email your doctor | Through front desk or portal (with long wait or hold times) |
| Focus on Prevention | Proactive, whole person care | Often reactive, insurance driven |
| Chronic Care Support | Personalized and ongoing | Rushed or fragmented |
| No Insurance Hassle | No paperwork or codes | Lots of forms and billing to meet insurance requirements |
| Relationship with Doctor | You know your Doctor | Often see different providers (doctors, NPs, or PAs) |