Patient Frequently Asked Questions

A: Concierge medicine is a membership-based healthcare model where patients pay an annual or monthly fee for enhanced access to their physician and additional services. You maintain a direct relationship with your doctor, who has a smaller patient panel, allowing for more personalized and attentive care.

A: With concierge medicine, you get same-day or next-day appointments, longer visit times (30-60 minutes instead of 15), direct access to your doctor via phone/email, comprehensive preventive care planning, and coordination of specialist referrals. Your doctor will have more time to focus on your overall health rather than rushing through appointments.

A: No, you're not paying twice. Your membership fee covers enhanced services that insurance doesn't typically cover: extended appointments, direct physician access, comprehensive health planning, and care coordination. You still use your insurance for covered medical services, tests, procedures, and specialist visits.

A: Your membership includes:

• Same-day or next-day appointments
• Extended appointment times (30-60 minutes)
• Direct phone/email access to your physician
• Comprehensive annual wellness planning
• Coordination of specialist care
• 24/7 urgent care guidance
• No copays for office visits
• Personalized health goal setting
• Assistance with insurance claims and healthcare navigation

A: Yes! You'll have your physician's direct contact information for non-emergency questions. Most doctors respond within a few hours during business hours and have protocols for urgent after-hours issues.

A: Most concierge practices guarantee same-day or next-day appointments for urgent needs. Routine appointments are typically available within 1-2 days. You'll rarely wait more than a few minutes in the office.

A: This varies by practice. Some physicians include house calls for established patients when medically appropriate, while others may offer this service for an additional fee. Ask your doctor about their specific policy, though it is typically less common.

A: Membership fees typically range from $1,999 to $3,999 per year ($199-$367 monthly), depending on your location and the services included. Many practices offer discounts for couples or families.

A: Yes, most concierge practices continue to accept and bill your insurance for covered medical services. Your membership fee covers the enhanced access and services that insurance doesn't cover.

A: Most concierge physicians continue to participate in Medicare. Your membership fee covers services like extended visits and direct communication that Medicare doesn't reimburse. All Medicare-covered services are still billed to Medicare as usual.

A: Many practices offer reduced rates for additional family members. Typically, the second adult might receive a 10-20% discount, and additional adults with a steeper discount (another 10-20%), and children are often included at significantly reduced rates or free up to a certain age.

A: In most cases, membership fees are not eligible for FSA or HSA reimbursement because they're considered a retainer for future services. However, specific medical services may still be eligible. Consult your tax advisor for guidance.

A: With MedAlly, doctors will continue to provide you personalized care through the end of your membership period. In cases of death, relocation or financial difficulty, you can request prorated refund after submitting evidence.

A: Your concierge physician will coordinate specialist referrals and often can expedite appointments through their professional network. They'll also help ensure proper communication between specialists and follow up on recommendations.

A: For true emergencies, always call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Your concierge doctor can provide guidance for urgent but non-emergency situations and can coordinate with hospital staff if you're admitted.

A: Generally, yes. Your concierge physician will work with your existing specialists and can help coordinate your care between providers.

A: Practices typically have coverage arrangements with other concierge physicians or trusted colleagues. You'll be informed about coverage procedures and have access to care when your doctor is away.

A: Yes, most concierge practices offer video visits and phone consultations for appropriate medical issues. This is especially convenient for follow-ups, medication questions, or minor concerns.

A: You can enroll either during the open enrollment period or anytime after (typically at a higher price) via our patient portal signup page.

A: Your medical records remain with you and will be fully accessible. Your concierge physician will obtain records from your previous providers and maintain comprehensive documentation of your care.

A: Some practices offer trial periods or month-to-month options. Ask about available options to ensure the practice is a good fit for your needs.

A: Your concierge membership is independent of your insurance coverage. If your insurance changes, your physician will work with your new plan just as they did with your previous coverage.

A: While similar, concierge medicine typically involves higher fees but continues to work with insurance. DPC practices usually charge lower monthly fees but don't bill insurance at all. Concierge practices often offer more comprehensive services and amenities.

A: No. Many patients find that the membership fee (often $199-$367 monthly) is comparable to other household expenses like cable TV or gym memberships. The value comes from better health outcomes, reduced emergency room visits, and time saved not waiting for appointments.

A: Actually, with fewer patients, your doctor can dedicate more time and attention to each person. Most physicians choose concierge medicine specifically because they want to provide better, more personalized care.

A: Concierge medicine emphasizes preventive care to keep you healthy. The value isn't just in treating illness but in maintaining optimal health, catching problems early, and having peace of mind with direct access when you need it.

A: This depends on the practice model. Some physicians transition fully to concierge medicine, while others maintain a hybrid practice. You'll need to discuss options with your specific physician.

A: The medical expertise remains the same, but the delivery of care improves significantly. With more time per patient, doctors can be more thorough, catch issues earlier, and provide more comprehensive care.

A: Many concierge physicians offer telemedicine services for when you're traveling. Some practices also have networks that can help you find care in other cities. Discuss your travel needs with your physician.