What Is Direct Primary Care, and Why Does It Matter?

If you've never heard of direct primary care, you're not alone. It's not a new concept, but it's still flying under the radar for most people, and that's a shame, because it's one of the better ideas in healthcare right now.

Here's the short version: direct primary care, or DPC, is a membership-based model where you pay a flat monthly fee directly to your provider. No insurance billing. No surprise costs. No waiting three weeks for an appointment to ask a question your doctor answers in four minutes.

What you actually get

In a traditional practice, your provider is seeing 20 to 30 patients a day. That's not a criticism, it's just the math of an insurance-based system. When revenue depends on volume, time per patient shrinks.

In a DPC practice, the panel is small by design. That means longer appointments, same-day or next-day access, and a provider who actually knows your history without flipping through a chart while you talk.

At Groundwork Health, my members get direct access to me. That means texting, messaging, or calling without going through a phone tree. It means we have time to talk about what's actually going on, not just the chief complaint that fits into a 15-minute slot.

What it costs

Membership at Groundwork Health starts at $85 a month. That covers primary care, care coordination, and direct access. Labs are available at pass-through cost through my contracted lab partner, which is a fraction of what most people pay without insurance negotiation.

It is not insurance, and it doesn't replace insurance for hospitalizations or specialist care. But for the day-to-day primary care that most people actually need, it covers a lot of ground.

Who it's for

DPC works well for people who are self-employed or have high-deductible plans and are effectively paying out of pocket for primary care anyway. It works for people who are frustrated with rushed appointments and impersonal care. And it works for people who want a provider who has time to actually know them.

Groundwork Health is also built to be an affirming practice. If you've avoided or delayed care because you weren't sure you'd be treated with respect, that matters to me. Everyone who walks through my door, or logs into a telehealth visit, deserves straightforward, judgment-free care.

How to get started

Groundwork Health is open and accepting new patients. Primary Care membership is $85 a month. You can see what's included or enroll online. Have questions first? Book a free discovery call.