What is Direct Primary Care and is it different from a concierge practice like MDVIP or Signature MD?

Direct Primary Care means that instead of the doctor working for insurance companies, medicare, or healthcare corporations, we work solely for patient interests. By not participating in insurance plans or medicare, the doctor is able to practice medicine in a meaningful and patient-centered way, by having the time needed to spend with each patient.

DPC practices differ from concierge services such as MDVIP, where they charge an annual retainer fee, while also participating in insurance. Other concierge practices can cost almost $3000 per individual per year, just in retainer fees. DPC practice fees are for the actual medical care provided.

Why should I consider signing up?

Increasingly, patients are ending up with high deductible insurance plans, and have to pay for care up to, and over $5000 per year before insurance kicks in. With the DPC model, patients get unlimited office visits without additional copays, and has access to the doctor who knows them, 24/7. Minor procedures, in-office testing, are generally included free of charge, and can add up to substantial savings for the patients.

What services are covered by the membership fee?

For an affordable annual fee, which is less than the cost of a monthly cable bill or a cup of coffee a day from Starbucks, patients can rest assured that each of their concerns will be addressed, by a caring doctor. Fees cover annual comprehensive exams, often same or next day office visits for acute illnesses and followups, minor office procedures, and availability of the doctor via technology 24/7/365.

What is the cost of membership?

Our practice is closed for new patients seeking primary care.

What are possible additional costs aside from the membership fee?

Lab and radiological services will be billed through insurance, and subjected to the usual copay/deductibles. Specialized testing will be offered at substantial discounts for patients with insurance and with traditional medicare, many of the tests are covered 100%. Each test will be ordered, with upfront pricing and only with patient acknowledgement and consent.

How many patients will Dr. Kim and Dr. Keightley accept into membership?

Dr. Kim and Dr. Keightley will have the responsibility to provide each of their patients with the best care possible. They will be limiting membership to 300 patients per provider.

What if I want to cancel membership?

Direct Primary Care is a partnership with the individual patient. Membership cancellations will be considered on a case by case basis.

Does Direct Primary Care practice make sense if I don’t need to see the doctor often?

Dr. Kim and Dr. Keightley will focus not just on treating diseases, but on tailoring a health plan to the individual patient for long term prevention of diseases and achieving optimal health and well being. As such, this type of practice is an investment for health.

What happens if I need medical attention off hours, weekends or away from home?

You can contact Dr. Kim or Dr. Keightley for any situation and they will work with you to facilitate care on your behalf.