Exploring the Different Models of Direct Primary Care

While DPC is primarily known for two major models (individual/family membership and employer-sponsored), many practices offer different variations or hybrid models to cater to diverse patient and business needs.

In this brief article brought to you by the primary care doctors at Southern Maryland Medical Group, we shed light on some different variants of direct primary care.

Hybrid DPC model

The hybrid DPC model is a blend of traditional fee-for-service care and the DPC membership approach. In this model, the practice gives patients the choice to either sign up for a monthly membership or pay for services on a per-visit basis.

Under the hybrid model, patients who choose to remain in the fee-for-service structure can still use their insurance for specialty care, lab work, or medications not covered by the DPC membership.

On-site DPC for employers

For businesses, particularly large corporations or organizations with many employees, on-site DPC clinics can offer a powerful variation on the employer-sponsored model. These clinics operate directly within the workplace to bring healthcare to employees.

On-site DPC clinics often go beyond basic primary care by offering health screenings, fitness challenges, smoking cessation programs, nutritional counseling, and other health and wellness programs.

Having access to a primary care physician on-site means employees can schedule appointments during the workday without having to travel and businesses can reduce overall healthcare costs by preventing more serious medical issues.

DPC with focus on telemedicine

With the rise of telemedicine, some DPC models are shifting toward offering more virtual care. This model is especially useful for patients in rural areas or those with mobility challenges.

While these DPC models offer the bulk of care through telemedicine, practices often combine telemedicine with periodic in-person visits for more complex assessments, lab work, or physical exams.

Specialized DPC

Some DPC practices focus on specific patient populations or health concerns. This variation allows for more targeted care in areas like pediatrics, women’s health, or chronic disease management.

Pediatricians offering DPC services, for example, provide comprehensive care for children. They focus on preventive care, vaccinations, and developmental screenings. Practices concentrating on women’s health, meanwhile, offer specialized services like gynecological care, family planning, and hormonal therapy.

Concierge medicine hybrid

Concierge medicine shares some similarities with DPC, but there are notable differences. In some cases, practices may offer a concierge-DPC hybrid model that integrates the best of both approaches.

In a hybrid model, patients might pay a higher membership fee than a traditional DPC patient but receive more comprehensive or luxury-level services (such as 24/7 doctor access, extensive wellness coaching, or comprehensive executive physicals).

Consult with a professional today

Still have questions as to how you can best receive the care you need? Call or message Southern Maryland Medical Group to consult with a knowledgeable representative today.