It used to be that family doctors made house calls. Maybe you even saw the same doctor your whole life. Now you can still get that experience with concierge medicine at Four Seasons Medical Concierge in Phoenix, AZ.
What Is Concierge Medicine?
Concierge medicine is also known as direct primary care. Instead of going through insurance, health care providers are paid by retainer. Patients pay either a quarterly, monthly or annual retainer or fee.
It's also called patient-centered medicine. It's designed for patients who want more quality time with their healthcare provider. Providers are able to give their patients their undivided attention and yes, some make house calls.
It's the perfect medicine for today's on-demand world where everything comes at the touch of a finger.
How Can I Pay?
Patients can often use funds from their Health Savings Accounts (HSA) to cover the cost.
What Does Concierge Medicine Cover?
Concierge medicine usually covers routine in-office visits and services. It also covers simple diagnostic tests like X-Rays. Prescription medicines and procedures are often extra. There are various types of plans so it's important to read your plan fully before deciding.
5 Benefits of Concierge Medicine
There are many benefits of concierge medicine for both the providers and patients.
- More Preventative Care
Concierge medicine encourages patients to get proactive, preventive care. Many illnesses are treatable if they are diagnosed early. Using concierge medicine lowers healthcare costs by finding symptoms early and treating them.
- Cheaper than Regular Health Insurance
Expensive health insurance is unnecessary for many people, especially if they are in good health. Paying a retainer is cheaper for many people than paying premium health insurance costs. The numbers bear this out. According to a 2013 Wall Street Journal report, over two-thirds of concierge medicine retainers were less than $135/month.
Many concierge medicine providers use telemedicine and videoconferencing technology to consult with patients. This cuts down costs as well by reducing in-person visits.
- Less Bureaucracy
Nobody likes bureaucracy. Because insurance rarely gets involved, billing and payment are simple. This is a big plus for patients who want to take financial control of their healthcare experience.
Because health care providers spend less time on the phone with health insurance companies, they can also spend more time with their patients.
- Personalized Service
You get more personalized service when you choose a concierge. No more rushed doctor visits. The shortest doctor visit when you choose concierge medicine lasts 30 minutes. Your provider will take the time to understand you and your conditions.
This also means shorter wait times, off-hour visits, same-day appointments, and other perks.
- Convenience
When you choose this medicine, you get more access to your healthcare provider. Providers may be reachable at night or by text. They may give access to tools that help patients track their healthcare information. Many providers will also meet with patients remotely via video conference.
Conclusion
Don't just be another name on a screen. Find a provider who takes you and your concerns seriously. Contact Four Seasons Medical Concierge in Phoenix, AZ to find out whether medical concierge services are right for you.
