Why people confuse them
Both direct primary care (DPC) and concierge medicine often promise smaller panels, longer visits, and faster access. The words get used loosely online. The contract details are what matter.
Direct primary care (DPC)
DPC is usually a flat membership paid directly to the practice for ongoing primary care. Fees are often published. Insurance is typically not billed for the membership relationship itself — you may still keep insurance for hospitals, specialists, imaging, or catastrophes.
Typical DPC signals:
- Clear monthly or annual membership price
- Emphasis on access and relationship over insurance coding volume
- Labs / meds / procedures priced in cash or through partner networks
Concierge medicine
Concierge models also emphasize access and smaller panels, but structures vary widely:
- Retainer + insurance billing for visits
- Retainer-only
- Hybrid “membership lite” packages
“Concierge” is a marketing umbrella more than a single legal model. Always ask what is included.
Side-by-side questions worth asking
- What does the monthly/annual fee include — and exclude?
- Do you bill insurance for visits, labs, or procedures?
- How large is the panel, and how do you handle after-hours access?
- Can I see current cash or membership prices in writing?
- What happens if I need a specialist, imaging, or hospital care?
How to compare on this directory
Browse The Direct Care List and filter by care model when the listing exposes one (membership, cash-pay, episode, hybrid, concierge). Prefer practices that publish prices or a clear membership page. Verified listings add map icons and trust signals for claimed practices.
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