“Healthcare industry professionals, what’s a common misconception about Direct Primary Care that you’ve encountered? How would you clarify this misunderstanding based on your experience?”
To enhance access to primary care for patients of diverse financial means
One common misconception regarding Direct Primary Care (DPC) is whether it is being directed to an affluent class of the society or if it completely replaces the need for any insurance health care features. In truth, DPC strives to be a cost-effective solution that eliminates the convoluted bureaucracy of health care—to enhance access to primary care for patients of diverse financial means, including those who only have high-deductible plans.
Unlike traditional fee-for-service models, DPC has a flat-rate monthly subscription which encompasses most primary care services, including those that usually have copays and surprise bills. Moreover, there is an emphasis on longer visits, personalized care, chronic condition management, and proactivity which, as a result, lessens the need for expensive physician services or ER visits. I always clarify that DPC works best when combined with a basic insurance or catastrophic plan to pay for emergencies or hospitalizations—not total substitute for insurance but as a powerful complement.
Holly Dufresne, Program Coordinator, Healthy Outlook Inc.
It’s a boutique service—luxury healthcare for people who can afford to pay out-of-pocket
One of the most common misconceptions I hear about Direct Primary Care (DPC) is that it’s a boutique service—luxury healthcare for people who can afford to pay out-of-pocket. And I get why people think that. On the surface, DPC looks like a model that steps outside the traditional system, which can make it feel exclusive.
But in our work at Ridgeline Recovery, what I’ve seen is that DPC can actually increase access and improve continuity of care, especially for individuals in early recovery who often fall through the cracks of the insurance-based system.
Here’s the reality: many of our clients either don’t have insurance or are on high-deductible plans that make basic care feel out of reach. DPC offers a clear, flat monthly cost—no surprise bills, no confusing codes. That kind of predictability is a game changer for someone rebuilding their life from the ground up.
Even more importantly, DPC doctors typically spend more time with patients and build actual relationships. That kind of care model mirrors what we aim for in addiction treatment: low caseloads, high presence, and trust over time. When our clients are connected to a DPC provider, they’re more likely to follow through on physical health concerns, get preventive care, and stay engaged—not just when something’s wrong.
From a business owner’s standpoint, DPC has become a valuable referral partner. We’ve built local relationships with DPC providers who understand trauma-informed care, and that shared approach creates a seamless transition for our clients post-treatment.
So to anyone skeptical of DPC, I’d say this: it’s not concierge—it’s personalized care without the red tape. And for people in recovery, that clarity and connection can make all the difference.
Andy Danec, Owner, Ridgeline Recovery LLC
It’s only for healthy patients or those who don’t require much medical attention
A common misconception I often encounter about Direct Primary Care (DPC) is that it’s only for healthy patients or those who don’t require much medical attention. From my experience, this couldn’t be further from the truth. DPC actually benefits patients with chronic conditions the most because it allows for more frequent, personalized visits without the typical insurance hurdles.
For example, I’ve worked with several patients managing diabetes and hypertension who appreciate the ease of access and deeper communication DPC offers. It enables us to adjust treatments promptly and avoid complications. I clarify that DPC isn’t about limiting care but expanding it in a way that focuses on quality and continuity rather than volume. It’s designed to serve all patients, especially those who need ongoing management and trust a doctor-patient relationship that’s accessible and responsive.
Nikita Sherbina, Co-Founder & CEO, AIScreen