Concierge programs offer enhanced services not generally covered by traditional insurance plans or Medicare, such as in-depth annual preventative physicals with specialized tests and more convenient and relaxed office visits.
Here's how it works
Full-model Concierge Programs
In a traditional practice, physicians typically care for 1,200 to 3,500 patients. In a full–model program, your doctor will see 200 to 600 patients. Appointments will be scheduled for only one or two patients per hour. As a result, appointments are generally same day or next day and rarely is there a wait. You will receive a direct phone line to contact your physician after hours and often your physician will offer other enhanced services such as house calls.
Hybrid Concierge
In a hybrid program, your physician continues to see all patients and will allocate a few hours of each day exclusively for concierge patients. As with the full–model, physicians offering hybrid programs schedule one to two patients per hour and typically offer same day or next day appointments. Patients will receive a direct phone line.
A key component of the full-model and hybrid programs is an intensive physical that goes well beyond the scope of most standard physicals. These exams are tailored toward patient needs and often include a broader array of tests to help the physician understand your unique healthcare needs as well as personal factors such as family history, job, etc.
The annual fee for the full-model and hybrid programs covers the cost of the physical exam. Your follow up and routine care is paid for through third party programs like private insurance, Medicare — or a Direct Fee.
Here is a summary of benefits for all concierge patients:
- Regular appointments will be available same day or next day and will begin on time unless there is an unanticipated patient emergency.
- Follow-up visits can be scheduled during concierge hours or traditional hours.
- A direct concierge representative and phone line helps make contact easy. You will have a direct contact line to reach the physician 24/7 when needed.
- If you are in the hospital — unless your health plan dictates otherwise — your concierge physician will visit and supervise your inpatient needs.
Because the concierge hybrid model only provides care for non-covered services, most patients continue to keep their traditional health insurance.
The fee averages about $150/month, annually less than the cost of a standard “executive” physical. Children up to age 25 may participate under their parents' program at no additional charge. Check with your physician to determine at what age the practice begins to see children.
