what is the direct primary care model?

A direct care model, often referred to as Direct Primary Care (DPC) or Direct Specialty Care (DSC), is a healthcare payment and delivery model where patients pay a monthly or annual fee directly to their physician for primary care and specialty services like sports and lifestyle medicine.

This model operates outside of the traditional insurance-based fee-for-service system, allowing for more personalized and accessible care. 

We've chosen this model because we believe our patients deserve better access to their physician — including same-day or next-day appointments, extended visits when needed, and the convenience of virtual care whenever possible. We also believe in complete transparency, with clear pricing so you can choose the care that best fits your needs.

Direct care gives your physician the time and freedom to focus on what matters most: delivering thoughtful, personalized, top-quality care without the administrative burdens of traditional medical practice.

A direct care model, often referred to as Direct Primary Care (DPC) or Direct Specialty Care (DSC), is a healthcare payment and delivery model where patients pay a monthly or annual fee directly to their physician for primary care and specialty services like sports and lifestyle medicine. This model operates outside of the traditional insurance-based fee-for-service system, allowing for more personalized and accessible care. 

We've chosen this model because we believe our patients deserve better access to their physician — including same-day or next-day appointments, extended visits when needed, and the convenience of virtual care whenever possible. We also believe in complete transparency, with clear pricing so you can choose the care that best fits your needs.

Direct care gives your physician the time and freedom to focus on what matters most: delivering thoughtful, personalized, top-quality care without the administrative burdens of traditional medical practice.

How it works

benefits for patients

how it's changing healthcare

Membership fee: Patients pay a flat, recurring fee ( ~ $50-95/mo) for primary care + sports medicine + lifestyle medicine services. Visit Dr. Hilton and Dr. Erickson-Adams' pages to view current pricing.

Consult fee for non-members: For sports or lifestyle medicine consults there is set fee that covers the initial consult and one follow-up visit. Visit your physician's page to view current pricing.

Care when you need it: The membership fee covers all visits a patient may need throughout the year, including annual physicals, sick visits, injuries, and minor in-office procedures.

No insurance billing for routine visits: The direct care model does not bill insurance for the covered services, which eliminates the paperwork and administrative hassle associated with traditional insurance. 

Catastrophic coverage: Patients are still encouraged to have traditional catastrophic insurance for major medical events like hospitalizations or surgeries.

Improved access and time: Patients can see their doctor more frequently, schedule appointments easily, and receive more one-on-one time during visits.

Transparency: Patients know the cost of their care upfront, avoiding surprise bills.

Convenience: Communication is streamlined, and services like basic in-office procedures are included in the membership fee. 

Reduced administrative burden: Physicians can spend less time on insurance paperwork and more time with patients.

Greater autonomy: The model allows for greater control over the practice and the types of services offered.

Focus on care: Physicians can prioritize preventative and personalized care over treating based on insurance coverage.