Direct Primary Care

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the direct primary care (DPC) model gives family physicians a meaningful alternative to fee-for-service (FFS) insurance billing, typically by charging patients a monthly, quarterly or annual fee. This fee covers all or most primary care services, including clinical and laboratory services, consultative services, care coordination and comprehensive care management.

Because some services are not covered by a retainer, DPC practices often suggest that patients get a high-deductible, wrap-around policy to cover emergencies.

For patients, DPC provides substantial savings and a greater degree of access to, and time with, physicians.

For physicians, DPC maintains standards of care while reducing the overhead and negative incentives associated with FFS, third-party-payer billing. Other benefits of DPC to physicians include:
  • More time with patients
  • Simplified revenue structure
  • Reduced administrative burden
  • Higher practice satisfaction, reduced burnout.

For more information on DPC, please visit the AAFP website. 

AAFP Resources and Events

Additional Resources