Concierge medicine is designed to give patients an alternative to standard practices and more control in the healthcare process.

The concierge model brings the practice of medicine back to the physician and patient. It is no longer about finishing the appointment in less than 10 minutes or writing prescriptions based upon a few symptoms. This model also allows the doctor to spend much more time with each patient, gain meaningful, rich family history, and make diagnosis and treatment of any health issues infinitely more accurate.

The practice size is limited so that the physician can offer a more personalized care experience for every patient and an assortment of additional benefits. In exchange for this, the patient agrees to become a member of the practice.

The limited practice size allows for many other enhancements to the care provided –little to no waiting for your appointment and much more of the care can be provided electronically because the physician knows you and your health much better.

The most common misconception about concierge medicine is that insurance is not accepted. Each concierge practice is designed differently, so it’s important to ask your concierge practice manager how they handle insurance and the cost of office visits.

It is also important to know how they handle referrals outside of the concierge practice. Do they help you with the first appointment? Do they match the referral to your insurance to maximize your insurance benefits? And do they send your records ahead to the specialist office so that your appointment can be the most productive possible?